Kim Reese Azar
MIXES FAMILY & BUSINESS FOR 100 PROOF SUCCESS
IN THIS ISSUE
MARCH/APRIL 2019
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21
28 90 16
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profile
leading ladies
home
hill country women
Kim Reese Azar finds balance between her blended family and her success as one of San Antonio’s distillers.
Three successful San Antonio women credit their success to youth sports and a teamwork mindset.
A San Antonio couple decided to downsize and move closer to the city center. They transformed a century old cottage into their forever home.
Meet three dynamic women who have found successful businesses in the Texas Hill Country towns of Boerne and Comfort.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
MARCH/APRIL 2019
business
food
Spotlight on Dr. Kristi Clark, CEO of Health Texas.
Hill Country Eats
57
96
126
58
SA Eats
Women on the Move
124
65
Dining Mediterranean flavors with a modern flair at Bella on Houston.
Business Calendar
lifestyle 60
stories 116
Artbeat San Antonio artist, Kathy Sosa, presents a new art exhibit inspired by “52” faces.
118
Fashion Embrace the Fiesta spirit with bright, fun fashions.
62 Beauty Pantone’s color of the year.
64 Active Living Communication with loved ones is key to managing money in the golden years.
84
Role Model CEO Sara Neel believes there is great value in starting at the bottom and earning your stripes the hard way.
an active lifestyle and a sensible diet.
120
88
Guy to Know Eric Bell is helping alter urban living transportation choices in San Antonio and beyond.
TRENDING
Health A healthy liver is vital and starts with
special sections 47
The Dossier featuring Interior Designers and Decorators from San Antonio.
67 Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure
Mommy Matters Teaching children to embrace others regardless of their differences will help shape their future relationship.
99 Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas
EMBROIDERY
THE LOB If you are tired of your long hair and want to make the chop, opt for the chic cut that falls to the shoulders and style with a beachy wave. It is perfect for those hot summer months that are quickly approaching. 8 SAWOMAN.COM
With Fiesta on the horizon, embrace San Antonio culture with beautifully embroidered styles. From blouses to dresses, these eye-catching and intricate designs are sure to make you stand out from the crowd.
HOOP EARRINGS In a rush to get ready but looking for that final touch? Hoop earrings big or small are the accessory that goes with every look. Dress them up or down, they are the perfect way to pull together your entire look.
CONTRIBUTORS
Christie Cuthbert An award-winning columnist, Christie Cuthbert has been a writer for 15 years and is busy raising four boys, including a set of triplets. She is currently working on her first book, "Mom I Farted in Church" A Type A Mama's Crazy Journey Learning to Laugh. Follow her journey on Instagram @christiecuthbert.
Janet Rogers Janet has been a photographer for over 35 years and for more than 12 years for San Antonio Woman. She was inspired to get behind the camera while studying to be an art teacher. Discovering her passion for photography motivated Janet to change her mind about teaching. Instead, she devoted her career to the art of capturing images by camera. Janet paved the way for women photographers in San Antonio when she became the first woman in the city to earn degrees as a photographic master and craftsman. Today, her favorite part of her work is using technology to interpret photographic images, transferring them into paintings and watercolors.
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EDITOR’S LETTER
Susan Thornton
SAN ANTONIO WOMAN EDITOR
SAN ANTONIO WOMAN wants to inspire you. Women of San Antonio: your lives, your stories, events that inspire and shape our city, shared on multiple platforms:
Springtime in San Antonio means FIESTA! I love Fiesta because it is something that sets San Antonio apart from other cities. The energy
/SanAntonioWoman
and excitement, not to mention the tourism are
Over 12,200 followers.
immeasurable. There is truly something for everyone. Ladies, it’s time to pull out all of your bright colors because nothing is too bright for Fiesta. Earlier this year I had the opportunity to meet
@SanAntonioWoman Over 10,400 people follow us. Do you?
and visit with our cover girl, Kim Reese Azar. What a neat lady! In one year she got married, blended a family of 5 children and started a business. It has been quite a balancing act, but she hasn’t missed a beat! The three Leading Ladies you will meet in this issue have all been successful in their fields. The common thread is that they all attribute their successful careers to playing
@SanAntonioWoman We have over 14,900 followers!
youth sports. These experiences taught them to give their best, resolve conflicts and to work as a part of a team for something bigger than themselves. It is my sincere hope that as you peruse the pages of this magazine you will each find something that interests you. The beauty of San Antonio can be found in the people who live here. There are so many women with great stories to tell and we want to hear them and share them with you. If you know someone who you think has a great story, I hope you’ll email me and tell me about them. Viva Fiesta! SAWomanConnect.com is a resource for connecting professional women from all over San Antonio. For more information, please call 210-826-5375.
Susan Thornton, Editor susan@sawoman.com
PuBLISHER J. Michael Gaffney EDITOR Susan Thornton COPY EDITOR Gabrielle Hernandez FASHION & BEAuTY EDITOR Aquila Mendez-Valdez ARTS EDITOR Jasmina Wellinghoff GRAPHIC DESIGN Maria Jenicek
CONTRIBuTING WRITERS John Bloodsworth, Christie Cuthbert, Gabrielle Hernandez, Meredith Kay, Berit Mason, Pamela Miller, Jennifer O’Neill, Dawn Robinette, Jana Valdez PHOTOGRAPHY Al Rendon, Jason Roberts, Janet Rogers, David Teran BuSINESS DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING Cindy Jennings, Patricia McGrath, Edward Romero
ONLINE MEDIA Tuesday Shaw, Michelle Miles
ADMINISTRATION & CuSTOMER SERVICE Nancy A. Gaffney
MEDIA COORDINATOR Cynthia Cunningham
INTERN Ana Gibbs
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San Antonio Woman is published bimonthly by PixelWorks Corporation (Publisher). Reproduction in any manner in whole or part is prohibited without the express written consent of the Publisher. Material contained herein does not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher or its staff. San Antonio Woman reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. San Antonio Woman does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertisements or editorial, nor does the Publisher assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Articles and photographs are welcome and may be submitted to our offices to be used subject to the discretion and review of the Publisher. All real estate advertising is subject to the Federal Fair Housing Act of 1968, which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status or national origin, or an intention to make such preference, limitation or discrimination.” Printed in the U.S.A.
WHAT’S NEW opened a new expanded showroom at their existing location on Gordon Road. Now homeowners and builders will have the ability to see dozens of garage doors and door openers on display. The showroom features nearly 50 different garage doors reflecting the latest trends and designs. Customers can choose from a wide range of styles, panels, colors, windows and decorative hardware. Smart garage door openers are also on display that allow homeowners to operate their doors from their smartphones.
BMW Ribbon Cutting On Thursday, January 8 there was a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate BMW of San Antonio joining the North Chamber of Commerce. A tour of the facility revealed the 100+ service bays equipped with the newest technology, to the BMW customization center and massive open showroom floor and state-of-the-art luxury.
Robin Hood 210
Ken Legler Small Business Champion Award Lisa Fullerton, president and CEO of A Novel Idea LLC., owner of five Auntie Anne’s and two Cinnabon franchises in San Antonio, has been received the Ken Legler Small Business Champion Award from the Texas office of NFIB, the nation’s leading small business advocacy organization. Lisa is pictured with ladies from NAWBO-SA.
Robin Hood 210, a community giving program created by Noisy Trumpet Digital and Public Relations, raised more than $51,000 for Brighton Center with the help of the San Antonio community following their inaugural campaign. With this donation, Brighton Center is able to continue their mission of providing developmental and educational services to the children of San Antonio (left to right: Rosalyn McMahon, Elizabeth Macias Bomer, Kim Jefferies, Katrina Campbell and Fran Yanity).
Friends of Hospice Valentine Luncheon
Hollywood-Crawford unveils New 2,000 sq. ft. Showroom Hollywood Crawford Door Company established in 1947 has 14 SAWOMAN.COM
The 2019 Friends of Hospice Valentine Luncheon was held on Saturday, February 9 at the San Antonio Country Club. The mission of Friends of Hospice is to increase community awareness and understanding of hospice as well as to raise funds in support of patients and their families in end-of-life care. The luncheon included a style show with fashions from Julian Gold.
Go Red for Women Luncheon The Go Red for Women Luncheon was held at the Mays Family Center at the Witte Museum on Thursday, February 7. This annual event focuses on preventing heart disease and stroke by promoting healthy lifestyles, building awareness and raising funds to support research and education.
Rhino Savanna at the San Antonio Zoo The San Antonio Zoo revealed their newly renovated Rhino Savanna on Saturday, March 2. Zoo CEO Tim Morrow, pictured here with SA Woman Publisher Mike Gaffney, Dante Fenolio, Stacy McReynold, and Catherine Lorenzo, introduced two - 2-yearold Southern white female rhinos and said that there would be a young male joining them in about a year. Susan Naylor, San Antonio Zoo board member and a major benefactor of the zoo received this rhino painting during the opening on Saturday night. MARCH/APRIL 2019
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PROFILE
Kim Reese Azar BLENDING FAMILY AND BUSINESS TO CRAFT THE PERFECT COCKTAIL By Dawn Robinette Photography by Jason Roberts
It’s not often that a conversation makes you want to have a drink, but a chat with Kim Reese Azar definitely puts you in the mood for a cocktail. But don’t blame her: she’s just doing her job. As Co-owner and Director of Public Relations for Azar Family Brands, Azar’s life is bubbling with Cinco Vodka and Seersucker Gin, the company’s popular— and award-winning — creations. Add a side of Azar’s honest, easy manner and infectious laughter, and it’s impossible not to picture sharing stories over cocktails. And Azar has quite a story to tell, but first, the cocktails. Distilling was a business she knew nothing about until she met now-husband, Trey Azar. On their first date, she asked what he did for a living. Trey explained that he’d been in the oil and gas business, then said, “I think I’m going to make my own vodka,” explaining what he had in mind: creating a high-quality vodka that didn’t have to be imported. A vodka drinker, Reese was intrigued. Their relationship grew and so did the plans for Azar Distilling and Cinco Vodka, handmade in San Antonio. As Cinco Vodka was being created, Trey and Kim, whom Trey calls Kimberly, got married. The vodka’s full name, Cinco Five Star Vodka, is a nod to their family of five children, the five “stars” in their blended universe. Of course, like the vodka, building that blended family didn’t happen overnight. Azar’s path to today’s family and business success wasn’t as smooth as sipping Cinco. Azar left her first husband when her oldest daughter, Sloane, was two and a half. She was three months pregnant with her younger daughter, Grey. “That’s a story that when I tell other women — even men — they’re like ‘What?!?’ They can’t even imagine it. “My parents were divorced and that was the last thing I
The Azar Family, top left to right- Nathan, Kim, Trey, Tucker. Bottom left to right- Sloane, Carli, and Grey.
ever wanted. All I wanted was a successful family, a big family. I wanted more kids. But I’d been married five years and I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, I have the same exact marriage
was the cutest little sandwich and ice cream shop in Hondo.
my parents had’. And I thought, ‘I’m not going to do that to
When I was living there, I’d go to lunch there every day. That
my children. I can’t.’”
restaurant was the hardest I’ve ever worked in my life. It was
Through marriage counseling, Azar hoped to change things, but it became clear that it wasn’t going to work. “I had to make a tough decision. It was two years until I finally
such long hours. My girlfriend was my business partner. Our dads co-signed a loan so we could buy it.” They ultimately sold the restaurant after about a year of
realized I needed to go. Being pregnant almost motivated
ownership. “I learned so much, including how to cook. I still
me more. I thought, ‘I don’t want my girls to be raised like
love to cook. It makes my heart happy.”
that, in a home where their mom is not respected and honored.’ So I left.” That sounds shocking, but Azar’s life journey hasn’t been typical, including buying a restaurant right out of college. “It
Hondo might not seem like the place to jump into the culinary world, but thanks to Azar's father's dream of having his family enjoy life in the country, they'd moved to Hondo from San Antonio the summer before she started high MARCH/APRIL 2019
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PROFILE
school. What was supposed to be a summer home turned into a permanent address when her father sold the family's
she met Trey Azar. The couple has been together for nine years and
San Antonio home. “I don’t think I talked to him for more
married for eight. As happy as she is now, Azar doesn’t
than a month because I was so mad.”
regret her years as a single mother. “I’m proud of being so
“But it was the best experience. I hated it at first, but I
independent, how my girls see that. They really gleaned a
was so glad that we made that choice. It was a really great
lot from that. They learned what it’s like to be independent
way to grow up.”
and take care of yourself. I didn’t grow up with that. My
After the restaurant, Azar’s next career move took her to the cosmetics industry, where she worked her way from make-up artist to a statewide position with Estee Lauder,
mom was a stay at home mom, my dad was a successful businessman and entrepreneur.” “My mom was strong, but my dad wore the pants and
where she was ultimately promoted to be the youngest
everyone knew it. They divorced when I was a freshman in
account executive in the country. Chanel then came calling.
college. Then her real independence and strength started
“At the time, it was the pinnacle of the industry. If you
showing. She went out and started conquering everything
reached that position, you’d arrived. I loved it so much.”
she could. I think that’s been good for the girls to see.”
While she was still based in San Antonio, she was interested in moving to another market and Chanel gave her
Her mother, Ann Reese, suggested that she pursue a career in real estate, working with her to learn the ropes.
the opportunity to interview for a spot in Los Angeles. When
Azar got her license while living with her mom, but her
she was offered the position, she went out with friends to
training took a different path. “The twin bed I was sleeping in
celebrate. That night, she met the man who would become
was in her office, so there were days I would just hang out
her first husband. They dated long distance, but after some
and listen to her on the phone. She was a very successful
time, she left Chanel to get engaged and married. When she realized she needed to end the marriage, her
agent. I learned more from her through osmosis, listening to her, handling different problems for people or negotiating,
journey brought her back to San Antonio, and back to
whatever it was. I never had to work with my mom because
family. She lived with her mother while she was getting on
I was ready to hit the ground running.”
her feet. After she had Grey, she bought her home in Alamo Heights and moved her life forward as a single mom. Until 18 SAWOMAN.COM
Her success in real estate is proof that her unorthodox training paid off. A multi-million-dollar producer, Azar’s been
a licensed realtor with Phyllis Browning Company for 18 years, where her client-focused service and work ethic earned several honors, including Platinum Top 50
now in 14 states.” That number continues to grow, something Azar is focused on as they work to build the brand and she looks to
recognition, Phyllis Browning Company’s Platinum Circle
the future. “I’d love for this to be an international brand. And
award and Rookie of the Year for top sales in her first year.
perhaps have one or two of our kids working with us.”
Looking back, Azar is proud of the perseverance she’s
As important as the business is, Azar has no problem
shown. “I literally started over again. My girls have gotten to
keeping things in perspective. Losing her mother to cancer
watch me be financially independent, working hard. They
in 2016 put things into clearer focus for her. “You start
grew up knowing what that meant. I was raised by a strong
realizing what the important things are in life. Life is really
woman and I’ve raised strong daughters.” “I feel like your strength comes to the top, especially in difficult times when you need it. So when I look back and people say, ‘How in the world did you have the strength to
short — another cliché — but it really is true. We need to just soak it up and live each day to the fullest.” For her, that means a bucket list that includes learning to play the baby grand piano she inherited from her mother
leave your marriage when you were pregnant and had a 2-
and making time to enjoy San Antonio's red-hot food and
and-a-half-year-old?’. I just did what I thought was right.
cocktail scene, with drinks that include Cinco Vodka and
And I didn’t look back. I knew it was the right thing and I
Seersucker Gin, of course.
wanted to do it for my kids. I didn’t want to repeat history.”
And spending time with friends, who she credits for helping her weather her journey. “My female friendships
"The best thing I can tell anybody is to follow your dream. I know that sounds cliché, but don't be afraid. Don't let fear stand in your way of stepping outside and doing something that really makes you smile or that gives you butterflies. Let that be your motivation."
have been crucial throughout my life. Along with family, friendships have gotten me through the most difficult times of my life. We've been through weddings, marriages, divorces, helping raise each other's children and now watching our grown children leave the nest. I'm not sure what I would have done without my tribe!” That’s definitely something to toast over cocktails.
That motivation helped Azar Family Brands launch another spirit, crafting Seersucker Southern Style Gin. “We wanted to focus on Southern flavors and make a gin that was user-friendly. So many people want a cocktail, but don’t want to make their own because they’re intimidated. With Seersucker, it’s easy. Pour it over ice, add a mixer, maybe a garnish, and you’re done.” Seersucker is available in Original, Limeade, Lemonade and the newest flavor, Grapefruit, though another flavor is already on the horizon (and still under wraps). “We reverse-engineered cocktails. That’s what’s in the bottle. It’s the only gin made with real juice. We introduced it 18 months ago and the flavors less than a year ago, but it’s
Azar and her friends enjoy their girls nights with lots of laughter and cocktails made with Seersucker Gin.
MARCH/APRIL 2019
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LEADING LADIES
Play Like a Girl...
and Succeed
By Meredith Kay
Photography by Jason Roberts
Not all little girls grow up wearing princess dresses, tutus, and ribbons in their hair. Some girls would rather wear cleats than heels, and play defense instead of having a tea party. Some of us grew up dreaming of being on the court or on the field, hearing the crowd cheer us on. We would rather be competing than sitting in the stands or watching from the sidelines. Participating in a sports program when we are young teaches us teamwork, the importance of practice, and instills a confidence that comes with knowing that you did your best, win or lose. When most people use the phrase, “You play like a girl,� it is not normally meant to be a compliment, but for three remarkable San Antonio women, this comment will be welcomed with a smile and a sense of pride. MARCH/APRIL 2019
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LEADING LADIES
Jenny Carnes
Sr. Vice President & C.O.O. at San Antonio Sports “Putting San Antonio on the Map One Sporting Event at a Time”
tenure with the organization, Carnes has been instrumental in bringing six regional NCAA tournaments and five Final Four events to San Antonio. Last year, the Men’s Final Four basketball tournament brought 145,000 people to
When your dad is the head umpire in a small Texas town,
the Alamo City over
it is only natural to follow in his athletic footsteps, and that is
three days. Carnes
exactly what Jenny Carnes has done. Growing up in Uvalde,
and her team
Carnes grew to love sports. She would play pick up games
worked tirelessly to
Jenny takes a shot while playing for Uvalde High School in 1995.
with the boys around her, including her brother, and became
make sure that every single detail was taken care of; from
quite competitive. She played baseball and volleyball, but
handling the visiting media, dignitaries, volunteers and team
her strongest sports were basketball and tennis. In fact,
personnel, to coordinating the concerts, fan experiences
Carnes earned a basketball scholarship to the University of
and multiple venue events that take place over the exciting,
the Incarnate Word and has called San Antonio her home
and activity-filled weekend. The bid process to secure a
ever since. Youth sports, along with her parents’ strong
Final Four tournament can sometimes take up to five years,
athletic influence, taught her how to balance the physical
and a city cannot bid for future events in the same year that
with the mental, and she thrived in the college environment.
they are hosting the event. It is an arduous process with
This led her to take a chance when her roommate, a key
endless red tape, but Carnes and her amazing team at San
member of the university tennis team, injured her ankle and
Antonio Sports have already been hard at work planning the
suggested that Carnes contact the coach about becoming
2021 Women’s Final Four, along with the 2025 Men’s Final
a member of the team to fill in for her. With her natural
Four events.
athletic ability and experience playing tennis in high school, she walked on to the team and played all four years while
Jenny Carnes is a tenacious competitor and carries an intense, but friendly, demeanor. She gets excited when
carrying a full academic load, earning her degree in
discussing the impact that these events have had, and will
Business Administration, and ultimately becoming the
continue to have, on San Antonio. “Not only do these events
university's first-ever basketball All American in 1991. Most college graduates don’t find their dream jobs right
have a huge economic impact on our city, but the residual impact for tourism can be felt for years. We are putting San
out of school. Most of us must pay our dues, work jobs that
Antonio on the map as a premier sports destination while
have nothing to do with our areas of study, or even work
allowing the people of San Antonio to experience world-
two or more menial jobs until we can find that first “real” job
class sporting events."
that allows us to embark upon our desired career. Some
Mother to two little girls, Carnes is already preparing her
may say that Jenny Carnes got lucky, landing her dream job
daughters to compete in this world, trying out a variety of
as early as she did, but those that know her know she
youth sports, so they can discover their own strengths.
positioned herself precisely and worked very hard as a
Carnes loves to ski and becomes “an incredibly unpleasant
young intern, and it all paid off. Starting her career with
person” if she doesn’t get to hit the slopes at least once a
San Antonio Sports, formerly the San Antonio Sports
year. Growing up an athlete has taught her the value of
Foundation, Carnes did whatever it took to become
working hard toward a goal that benefits the team, and the
invaluable to the organization. She helped to build the
city of San Antonio is blessed to have such an amazing
Sports Tourism division, and throughout her nearly 20-year
team leader to take us into U.S. sports history.
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“ Not only do these events
have a huge economic impact on our city, but the residual impact for tourism can be felt for years. We are putting San Antonio on the map as a premier sports destination while allowing the people of San Antonio to experience world-class sporting events.
“
MARCH/APRIL 2019
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“ Sports helped me define who
I could be. Playing sports was my way to escape the reality of my circumstances. Basketball allowed me to harness, and focus my energy away from my personal issues. On the court, nobody could judge me personally, or take away my success. Through basketball, I found my spot.
24 SAWOMAN.COM
“
LEADING LADIES
Shantel Wilkins Deputy Managing Director at The Kronkosky Charitable Foundation “Overcoming obstacles to separate herself from the pack”
Imposing. Confident. Assertive. These are the words that
Incarnate Word.
come to mind when you meet Shantel Wilkins for the first
She wanted to
time. Always taller than the other kids her age, Shantel
study at a smaller
spent the early part of her childhood just trying to make
university that
sense of, and survive her circumstances. Her mother had
wouldn't be
Shantel takes a jumper with two Schreiner University players looking on during her Junior year with the UIW Lady Crusaders.
her when she was only 17 years old and raised Shantel, and
overwhelming, as she really didn't have a road map to
her two brothers, as a single parent, with limited resources.
where she wanted her life to take her.
Shantel was shy and insecure, having been sexually abused by her stepfather as a young girl, but her entire outlook on
Shantel worked hard after college, and became the P.R. assistant to Representative McClendon before moving on to
life changed when she met Tina Powers, her middle school
work with the Girl Scouts of America, the San Antonio River
basketball coach. She was recruited to play because of her
Authority, and then to Boeing, where she held the position
height, but Coach Powers saw something special in Shantel
as the Global Corporate Citizenship Community Investor for
and set out to help her become the strong and confident
11 years. Her career then led her to become a Senior Vice
woman that she is today. Wilkins worked hard, spending summers training with
President and Philanthropic Client Manager for Bank of America, before recently joining the team at the Kronkosky
Coach Powers and played pick up basketball with the boys
Charitable Foundation. Today, she serves as the Deputy
in the neighborhood every chance that she got. These
Managing Director, responsible for helping to decide where
formative years taught her to be tenacious and tough, as
foundation funds can best serve the San Antonio
she worked to set a good example for her younger brothers
community and surrounding areas.
and to not become just another statistic based on her circumstances. “If I had been a statistic, no one would have judged me or been surprised, but sports helped me define who I could
Wilkins is an advocate for girls of color, and hopes that her example will inspire young ladies to rise above their circumstances to find their paths in life and strive to live their best lives. She has been an inspiration to her family as well.
be. Playing sports was my way to escape the reality of my
Both of her brothers became athletes and one of them even
circumstances. Basketball allowed me to harness and focus
had a career in the NFL, playing on Special Teams under
my energy away from my personal issues. On the court,
Coach Mac Brown at UT Austin, and then for the Green Bay
nobody could judge me personally, or take away my
Packers, the Cincinnati Bengals and the Atlanta Falcons.
success. Through basketball, I found my spot.” Coach Powers followed Shantel’s progress through high school and eventually became her basketball coach again in her senior year at Westwood High School in Austin. Her
Her mother was also inspired to go to college where she earned her Bachelor’s degree, and eventually her Master’s degree. She still lives in Austin and owns her own business. Shantel has a son, who is already showing signs of
hard work, and Powers’ great coaching, led to several
becoming an athlete, with his mother’s intense competitive
college scholarship offers including Concordia University and
spirit. She is an elegant and intelligent force to be reckoned
the University of Mary Hardin Baylor, but she chose to study
with, and will hopefully have the opportunity to inspire the
Communication Arts and play for the University of the
lives of many young ladies for years to come. MARCH/APRIL 2019
25
LEADING LADIES
Cyndi Taylor Krier Principal Partner at Krier Consulting Group “Everything I know, I learned on the court”
Over the years, there have been several studies that show that successful women in business have one thing in common: most of them have played competitive sports at some time in their lives. This should not be surprising. Many little girls are not taught from an early age to be tough, or that they can compete on the same level as boys. Some girls grow up believing this to be true, but some girls grab a bat, or a ball, or dive in to compete, and grow up to be strong and successful individuals, business leaders and trailblazers. Such is the story of Cyndi Taylor Krier, one of San Antonio’s most successful and influential women today. Growing up in George West, Texas, Cyndi Taylor’s grandmother did not approve of little girls playing sports with the boys, and she certainly didn’t think it was appropriate for her granddaughter to play basketball. However, Cyndi found her place on the court in middle school and a sense of comradery and sisterhood that she didn't have at home. Cyndi stretched her talents playing volleyball, tennis, track, and softball, but it was on the basketball court where she reshaped her way of thinking. Sports allowed her to grow from
26 SAWOMAN.COM
before moving home to San Antonio to begin her own political career. In 1985, Cyndi Taylor Krier became the first woman elected to represent Bexar County in the Texas State Senate. She held this office until 1992 and served on numerous Senate committees throughout her career. She even received the Texas Bar Foundation award for her help in developing and passing the Texas Alternative Dispute Resolution Act. This legislation has led to the resolution of hundreds of thousands of lawsuits through litigation, in less time and at less cost to litigants and taxpayers. From 1992 to 2001, Cyndi served as a Bexar County Judge, where she helped to oversee millions of dollars in budgets that affected county employees as well as public programs. Upon leaving office, she was honored with the naming of the Cyndi Taylor Krier Juvenile Correctional Treatment Center. For the past 20 years, Cyndi has held numerous prestigious positions with the University of Texas system, and USAA, as well as running her own law practice. Today, Cyndi and her husband, Joe Krier, run Krier Consulting Group, Inc., which focuses on helping public and private sector entities “work better together by understanding each other’s perspectives” to resolve conflict and achieve similar goals. She is still practicing teamwork and teaching others Cyndi poses for her sophomore team photo when she played basketball for George West High School in George West, TX.
to do the same. She has played in the Senior Games since turning 50 and serves on the board of San Antonio Sports, where she believes in their goal of creating opportunities for San Antonio youth through sports. Krier is one amazing lady,
a "mousy little girl" to a strong and confident young woman. Cyndi states, “I wasn’t the best player on the team, but I was one of the most committed.” She even tells how she and her teammates would wear leg weights under their dresses all day during school to strengthen their legs. She
and she continues to inspire other women with her story, her experience, and a philosophy that has made her successful.
Humbly, she states, “You don’t have to be the best, but you always have to give your best.”
also remembers having to share uniforms with the volleyball team, as girls’ basketball was just getting recognized. “The
In a world that just gets more competitive every day,
seasons overlapped, so sometimes we would have to wear
having a strong foundation as a woman is essential when
sweaty uniforms handed down from the volleyball team,
embarking upon a chosen career path, and sometimes the
fresh from a game.”
opportunities to build and strengthen our character when
Following high school and several successful basketball seasons, Cyndi moved to San Antonio to attend Trinity
we are young aren’t very clear. Participating in youth sports is one way that is proven to do this. On a team, we cannot
University and San Antonio College, before transferring
only focus on ourselves. We must direct our focus and our
and graduating from UT Austin with a journalism degree.
energies on what is best for the team, and this philosophy
She went on to earn her law degree from there as well and
will also carry over, and manifest its success, in the
began her illustrious career in Washington, D.C. as a White
professional arena. Very few endeavors and organizations
House intern under the Nixon and Ford administrations.
will find success at the hands of just one individual. They
Krier also worked for U.S. Senator John Tower (R-Texas)
say that it takes a village, but sometimes it just takes an
and then moved back to Texas to run his Houston office,
individual’s dedication to the goals of a great team. MARCH/APRIL 2019
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Design Duo Plan Home for Future Living By John Bloodsworth 28 SAWOMAN.COM
Photography by Al Rendon
It all started with the bathroom. “When you sat on the toilet, you could reach the sink,” Rudy recalled with a laugh. “We took out a closet to move a wall, adding a shower. That prompted the addition of a new closet that ate into the former kitchen, so a redo of that area began. Some of the Above: Anchoring the living area is a Karl Lubbering painting and a Robert Wurzbach painting on panel that gave visual inspiration for the Schumacher fabric plush overstuffed pillows on the Prussian blue velvet sofa. At Right: A pendant Schoolhouse Electric & Supply Co light fixture is reflected in the custom vanity mirror framed by Hunt Gallery. The tiled shower with brass hardware provides walk-in access for aging in place.
sheetrock was cracking and had to be replaced. Behind a former renovation, the original brick for the kitchen stove was discovered and incorporated into the design. Joe Shortt — Rudy’s best friend who he has known since fifth grade — put his construction talent to the task. Needless to say, a complete renovation over a year and a half transformed the simple cottage into a charming jewel box that pays homage to its humble beginnings over a
ooking to downsize, Becky and Rudy Sanchez had one priority in choosing a house to call home. It must have a big front porch where they could sit in the
century ago. With their decision to age in place, this was to be their forever home where they could enjoy the neighborhood and
evenings and enjoy the company of friends and neighbors.
surrounding community. “I felt like we were becoming
A 1915 cottage in Mahncke Park fit the bill.
somewhat isolated where we were living in a more suburban
Moving into the updated guesthouse on the property,
setting,” said Becky. “I could come home from work, pull
the couple began a simple remodel of the home with
into the garage, close the door and not see a neighbor until I
“good bones.” Originally, the house was just over 740
left for work on Monday morning.”
square feet, the size of their first apartment when they wed 25 years ago.
Moving closer to the city center, they have the opportunity — in the future — to access public transportation, MARCH/APRIL 2019
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AT HOME
Above: A scullery just off of the kitchen keeps small appliances on countertops for daily use, but out of sight. Backsplash tile from Fireclay. Cabinet and door hardware from Alexander Marchant. Range from Big Chill. Far Left: Seeded glass upper cabinet holds wine and cocktail glasses. Composite quartz countertops with unlacquered brass hardware. Refrigerator from Big Chill. Left: Island counter offer views of the entertaining area for work/party participation. Opposite Page: Guests can cozy up on a white cotton canvas sofa in the dining area for cocktails and conversation before dinner. Keith Harig poster from Tony Shafazi Gallery in New York. 30 SAWOMAN.COM
set out on foot to dine at nearby restaurants, shopping and enjoy cultural offerings that are within walking distance of
A couple that entertains on a regular basis, a great deal of time was spent on kitchen design. “We wanted some
their home. With a pleasant park and Botanical Garden just
separation of space between the kitchen, dining room and
a few blocks away, the active couple can take a walk, enjoy
living area,” said Becky. “We did not want a completely open
the scenery and de-stress.
kitchen anchoring a big open space.” The design had to respect the home’s provenance while providing space for
“We have great neighbors and feel more connected to our community,” emphasized Becky. “And we take advantage of living so close to The Pearl, Witte Museum and Central Market.”
contemporary living. Working with colorist Jim Smith, the subtle color palette complements the couple’s combined collection of art and vintage family furnishings. Becky is an avid collector of works created by women in the San Antonio arts community including Ann Michele Morales, Norma Jean
Working with Amity Worrell and Diane Kett of Amity + Kett, a residential architecture and interior design firm in
Moore, and Lesta Frank. Works by Robert Wurzbach and Karl Lubbering hang in the couple’s living room.
Olmos Park, brought the Sanchez’ concept of home to
As an original member of the iconic San Antonio band
reality. “Becky and Rudy were great clients to work with
Los No. 2 Dinners, Rudy’s collection has a distinct rock and
because they really wanted the house to reflect them,” said
pop proclivity. Playing bass, percussion and taking on
Diane Kett, “and they knew when to turn the project over to
vocals for the band, Rudy and the group first played at the
someone that could realize their vision.”
original Friendly Spot in 1979 where crowds would spill out MARCH/APRIL 2019
31
AT HOME
onto Beauregard Street dancing to the popular tunes. “We were an overnight sensation!” Rudy mused. Several of the band members were also accomplished visual artists including George Horner, who later had a successful career in the New York art world. A Keith Haring print and a promotional poster from the Andy Warhol vs. Jean-Mitchel Basquiat Show at the Tony Shafazi Gallery in New York are prized possessions. Original works by fellow band member and good friend George Horner hang with a silver gelatin print of Elvis Presley's last recording session in July 1956, a promotional poster for Presley’s movies “Jailhouse Rock” and movie still of Elvis in “Fun In Acapulco”. Sitting on the spacious front porch enjoying the comings and goings of a vibrant, inner-city neighborhood, the future looks bright in a home built for living.
Above: Needlepoint pillows once belonging to Becky’s mother add whimsy to the tranquil master retreat. Paint color selections Jeff Smith the Colorist. Window Treatments Austintatious Blinds. Right: Vintage dough box from Becky’s family holds a collection of Asian export ware, bronze pedestal bowl that echoes the vibrant colors in the Mexican folk art painting.
32 SAWOMAN.COM
AT HOME EXTRA
By Jana Valdez, Principal Interior Designer/Kitchen & Bath Specialist, Haven Design & Construction
Building a new home or remodeling requires a lot of decision making, especially in the areas of the kitchen and bath cabinetry. More and more clients are requesting cabinetry that is not only beautiful, but that also helps them to stay organized. Whether it’s adding a simple removable organizer to a drawer, or designing something more complex like a custom drying cabinet for the laundry, there are many solutions available to simplify the lives of busy homeowners. Here are a few favorite solutions that have added function and organization for my clients’ cabinetry in the past. Perhaps you can incorporate a few of these ideas into your next project, or better yet, be inspired to invent your own personal organizing ideas.
A TALL, SHALLOW ORGANIZATION CABINET With only four inches of depth available for this tall cabinet, we had to get creative. The homeowner expressed her desire to have a place to keep her son’s school calendar, car keys, mail, and a collection of cookbooks. Inside the top portion of the cabinet, we incorporated a bulletin board, pegs for car keys and envelope slots for organizing mail. On the bottom, we made room for the clients’ cookbook collection. We utilized every inch of space to create a clever solution for common kitchen clutter. 34 SAWOMAN.COM
A FUNCTIONAL CORNER CABINET PULLOUT Blind corner cabinets leave you stretching your arm into the dark corner as far as you can and wondering what you will pull out. This corner space is so deep, that it’s not truly functional. Lazy susans are one solution, but they are not desirable for every client. So, A more updated solution is this clever corner pullout. It pulls out in two sections and then folds back up into the corner to make use of that unreachable space. It’s especially useful for storing small kitchen appliances such as toasters and crock pots.
FREE UP COUNTER SPACE When a client requested to keep her countertops free of clutter, I came up with two solutions. First, we incorporated a built-in paper towel rack into an upper cabinet. There is a slot in the bottom of the cabinet for her paper towels to pull through. It’s a simple idea that keeps them off of the countertop and easily accessible at the same time. Second, we created a custom knife drawer to eliminate her knife blocks and free up valuable countertop space.
A CLEVER LAUNDRY DRYING CABINET A busy client with two children wanted to maintain a clutter-free laundry area that didn't always look like an explosion of clothes. However, she loved to air dry much of their clothing. So, we developed a special laundry drying cabinet for the family with a hanging rod and pullout drying racks. She can now dry clothes neatly out of sight until she’s ready to fold them and put them away. This has become her new favorite feature in the house.
the Dossier INTERIOR DESIGNERS & DECORATORS
Most people want to make their homes beautiful and comfortable. Interior designers and decorators can be instrumental in the process. Interior designers decorate and design, focusing on the spatial and structural aspect of the room while enhancing both the look and function. Interior decorators focus on the decorative details within the room and commit to making your room as aesthetically pleasing as possible. Although there are definite differences between interior designers and decorators, they both share the goal of ensuring their customer is happy and making their house into a home.
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
THE DOSSIER —
INTERIOR DESIGNERS & DECORATORS
Amity + Kett Amity Worrel and Dianne Kett, Owners 4211 McCullough Avenue • Olmos Park, Texas 78212 What elements define your style? As an Architect and Interior Designer, Dianne and I believe good design can take on a wide scope of personal styles based on the client’s needs and personality, but the distinctions that set our work apart are our constant, devoted attention to the easy flow and function of an interior space or exterior structure. With over 20 years' experience working in varied genres and locations, we have become chameleon-like and are able to serve a wide array of our client's sense of style and personal taste. Our flexibility comes from a strong understanding of design history and close attention to detail. What are the hottest styles or trends in San Antonio? San Antonio is a town that celebrates its design history.
210-526-1459 amitykett.com The neighborhoods tell their stories from the 1890s to the 1950s to now. The character homes call for defies trends and is true to the home’s original spirit when it comes to additions or renovations. We do see a trend toward “soft industrial” interiors and for exteriors with a contemporary farmhouse look. Casual California-style that is cheerful and easy is also trending. What is the biggest benefit a client receives when they work with Amity+Kett? Whether it's a new kitchen or a newbuild, we bring a unique blend of process, professionalism, experience, and efficiencies to each project. We both love the creative side of our work and equally enjoy our clients. Our practical, highly organized team approach is a huge value-add that serves the project from concept-to-completion!
Upmarket Cheryl Cage Boriack, Owner 21715 West I-10, Suite 105 • San Antonio, TX 78257 What elements define your style? Casual elegance concentrating on making a home tell its owners’ story and history in an updated current style. What are the hottest styles or trends in San Antonio? I am noticing people stepping away from heavy European furniture and accessories and wanting more of a cleaner, sophisticated, tailored style. It’s all about lightening up a room from the color on the walls to the texture in the textiles. Where do you find inspiration? How do you stay up to date with current trends, technology, and codes? I travel to 4 markets a year to check out new inspirations. I find it in the change of a season, the culture of a new town and even in the cuisine of my surroundings and travels. I also listen to
210-698-7774 upmarketsa.com what my clients desire and rejoice in the hunt to satisfy. How do you help me discover and communicate my style to you? Communication is key. My clients contact me at any moment when inspiration strikes. I am an intuitive listener and will not be satisfied until my client is. My personal style is a history of where I come from. It is important to me that a home's story is the family that lives in it. With your tenure in the business, how are you different today? Growing up on a cattle ranch, owning a store at the coast, living both in San Antonio proper and the hill country, makes me well rounded and has taught me to be versatile all over Texas. This experience has provided me with an incredible toolbox for ideas and sourcing.
THE DOSSIER —
INTERIOR DESIGNERS & DECORATORS
Jana Ward Interiors Jana Ward, owner of Jana Ward Interiors (JWI), has been making homes beautiful in San Antonio since 1998. She has seen many changes in trends and in design. “I’ve seen the industry change over the years from Tuscan, Mediterranean and Hill Country designs in the early 2000's to more transitional and contemporary, more cutting-edge designs in San Antonio today.” Her award-winning designs have been featured in magazines and on television. Jana is a frequent guest on the SA Living television program, where she discusses both design trends and construction tips. Jana not only owns JWI, but she also owns a full-service remodeling company, Clear Choice Remodeling, which won the Greater San Antonio Builders Association award for 'Grand Remodeler of the Year' in both 2017 and 2018.
JANA WARD INTERIORS 111 W. Rhapsody
“I love helping my clients design and build the kitchen or bathroom of their dreams" says Jana, “It gives me such joy to see the happy smile on their face as they see the finished product." Jana’s designs can be either traditional, transitional or contemporary, but she believes that regardless of your style, functionality must be first and foremost. “I love when my customer wants something 'outside of the box', but it must be functional and have purpose.” Jana has been a resident in San Antonio for over 20 years. She loves the area, the people and the diverse culture. “San Antonio has so much to offer and I love that it is multicultural, and everyone gets along so well.” Jana lives with 'the love of her life', her husband Jim, and their two dogs Sparky and Susie. She enjoys tennis, travel, a good book and serving at her church.
San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 524-1013 CLEAR CHOICE REMODELING 5139 N. Loop 1604 W. San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 377-0259 www.clearchoicesa.com
THE DOSSIER —
INTERIOR DESIGNERS & DECORATORS
5 Broads Off Broadway Owners: Debbie McCullough, Kathy Scholl, Krys Turner 518 Austin Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78209 What elements define your style? Our store covers the unique, the classic, the vintage and the eclectic providing choices for everyone because everyone loves different. What are the hottest styles or trends in San Antonio? We are seeing a move towards mixing it up. Modern mixed with vintage, contemporary mixed with classic. Clients are adding color this spring, lots of greens and slashes of pink. Where do you find inspiration? How do you stay up to date with current trends, technology, and codes? We stay fresh by speaking with our vendors, working with designers and listening to our clients who have ideas of what makes them happy.
210-824-3483 5broads.com How do you help me discover and communicate my style to you? We take a consultative approach. We ask questions to understand your vision and we work closely with you to turn that vision into reality. Instagram and Pinterest visually help our clients tag looks they like and we love to see that! What else would you like clients to know about your company? If you don’t find what you want on the floor, we have access to so much more through our vendors and we will help our clients find it. We love what we do and we love working with you.
44 SAWOMAN.COM
WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE
Find your dream home with the help of some of the best women in the business.
WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE
LEESA HARPER RISPOLI PRESIdENT, BROkER/OWNER
Family-owned businesses should always have a succession plan. San Antonio business community legend D’Ann Harper knew she was in great shape a few years ago when she appointed her daughter, Leesa Harper Rispoli, to lead local real estate power Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS®. “I absolutely adore my mom and have seen how much she means to so many people,” Leesa said. “Not only has she been the greatest mom you can have, but she grew to become a leader in the San Antonio business community and always remained kind, humble, and caring. I learned from the best, and every day I get to come to work and lead the best real estate agents around who provide incredible guidance and support for their clients.” Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS® has not missed a beat under Leesa, who was appointed President in 2016. Today the company has nine offices in San Antonio and the surrounding Hill Country area, with 450 agents and 100 employees. The 2018 San Antonio Business Journal Women’s Leadership Award recipient has grown the company to one of the largest Coldwell Banker franchises in the nation. The brokerage continuously ranks as a REAL Trends top 500 real estate firms in the nation. Last year the company participated in more than $1 Billion in sales volume for the fourth consecutive year. Leesa spent more than a decade working side-by-side with her mother after leaving a successful career in education. She was a teacher and administrator before ultimately becoming the Academic Dean for North East Independent School District (NEISD). “My work in the school system was so important to me, and not a day goes by where lessons I learned don’t come back to help me today,” Leesa said. “Listening, working collaboratively, and being consistent in my approach matter so much in what I do. And I have the same pride today in seeing our agents achieve great success as when I saw my students blossom.” That love of people is also seen in the community where Leesa and Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS® are extremely involved with the likes of Communities in Schools and Lighthouse for the Blind, along with a company-wide scholarship program, blood drives, and an annual Bear Hunt that delivers teddy bears to area children’s groups. Leesa is also well-known for her starring role on the company’s weekly TV show, Lone Star Living. The show is broadcast each 10:30 Sunday morning on WOAI (Channel 4) and has produced a spin-off that features high-end homes as part of the company’s Coldwell Banker Global Luxury program. “It is incredible that we were the first Coldwell Banker company in the United States to be awarded a stand-alone Global Luxury office, and our entire team is excited about how we can showcase the truly beautiful homes in our region and attract buyers to San Antonio.” The Global Luxury program is just another way that Leesa Harper Rispoli and Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS® continue to lead the way in San Antonio real estate.
Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS® 18756 Stone Oak Parkway, Suite 301 San Antonio, TX 78258 210-483-7004 | Lrispoli@cbharper.com www.cbharper.com MARCH/APRIL 2019
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WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE
TRACIE S. HASSLOCHER
BROkER/OWNER, MRE, BA, ABR, GRI, SRS, LTG Tracie is an independent broker/owner of Hasslocher Real Estate. Located in the 78209 area on Crownhill Blvd., Tracie has sold residential properties and land since 2005 in Bexar County and South Texas. She opened her own company in 2007 to better serve her clients. Confidentiality, professionalism, and trust are just a few of the qualities she strives to achieve with every client she helps. Tracie obtained her Master’s Degree in Residential Real Estate, Marketing, and Management in 2017. She recently obtained the Certified Real Estate Probate Specialist Designation. Tracie has been actively involved at the San Antonio Board of Realtors and currently is serving on the Board of Directors. Her memberships and designations include: National Association of Realtors® Texas Realtors ® San Antonio Board of Realtors ® Accredited Buyer’s Representative Certified Real Estate Probate Specialist Graduate Realtor Institute Residential Real Estate Council Seller Representative Specialist Leadership Training Graduate
Hasslocher Boutique Realty, LLC 8520 Crownhill Blvd. San Antonio, TX 78209 210-863-2629 www.hasslocherboutique.com 48 SAWOMAN.COM
LISA JENICEK REALTOR®, GRI
As a native of San Antonio, I have always had a genuine passion for real estate and helping people. Great communication and a high level work ethic is what sets me apart from other real estate agents in the market. After pursuing a career in the medical field for 14 years, I made the decision to transition into real estate after starting a family and already having investment properties of my own. I have now been in the real estate business 6 years and received my GRI designation, giving me in-depth knowledge in legal and regulatory issues, technology, professional standards, and the sales process. My approach to real estate is focused around getting to know my clients and taking care of them from the beginning to the end. Whether you are an experienced investor or a first time buyer, I can help you find the property of your dreams!
Center Point Realty 6735 IH 10 West, Suite 103 • San Antonio, TX 78201 O: 210-558-9899 • C: 210-854-1533 L.Jenicek@yahoo.com • www.centerpointrealtyco.com
LANA MARININ
REALTOR®, Platinum Top 50 2017, 2018 and 2019 Buying or selling homes in today’s market can be tricky business unless a professional represents you. I pay special attention to my client’s desires and help them to reach their goals. Part of the process includes informing my clients about the current market trends in the Greater San Antonio Metro Area. My motto is “treat all clients with the respect, honesty and loyalty”. My main focus is on the Fair Oaks Ranch, NW-N-NE San Antonio, and Spring Branch areas. I also specialize in lot acquisitions and new home sales for clients that want to build their dream home. If you choose to work with me, you’ll get my knowledge of today’s real estate market, experience in negotiation, and involvement in all real estate transactions encompassing sales, leases, land sales, and the sale of luxury homes. You won’t regret putting your trust in me. “Your Satisfaction is the key to my Success.”
Center Point Realty 6735 IH 10 West, Suite 103 • San Antonio, TX 78201 C: 210-900-0600 LanaMarinin@gmail.com • www.centerpointrealtyco.com MARCH/APRIL 2019
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WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE
MARIA NAVARRO REALTOR®, CRS, GRI, ABR, MRP
Maria Navarro started her Real Estate career in 2003 and quickly became one of the most sought after buyers agents in the area. From working with bank owned properties to working with builders, Ms. Navarro is one of the most well versed agents in the San Antonio area. Ms. Navarro has been locally and nationally recognized as one of San Antonio’s Top 100 Latino Realtors and National Top 250 Latino Realtor. When representing homeowners selling a property, Ms. Navarro definitely exceeds everyone’s expectations. Ms. Navarro goes beyond the extra mile to represent her clients’ best interests and net them the highest amount of money possible. If you are looking for a hard working, trustworthy, knowledgeable, honest and energetic Realtor, please contact Maria Navarro.
Center Point Realty 6735 IH 10 West, Suite 103 • San Antonio, TX 78201 O: 210-558-9899 • C: 210-781-0651 navarroreo@gmail.com • www.centerpointrealtyco.com
CALI REDD
CO-OWNER ANd BROkER Professional Standards Committee, Texas Association of Realtors Small Business of the Year, Nominated – Boerne Chamber of Commerce
JESSICA JOHNSON, MBA CO-OWNER ANd REALTOR
Business Woman of the Year, Nominated - Boerne & North SA Chambers of Commerce
All realtors use the same tools. So, it really comes down to how you treat the homeowner. No matter if you're selling a $100,000 house or a $1,000,000 house, Solid Realty Group provides first class service in a very different kind of real estate brokerage. Home of the Flat Fee Real Estate Package, Solid Realty Group offers money-saving choices when listing a home for sale. In the last year, Solid saved their homeowners over $200,000 of their hard-earned equity versus paying out the traditional 3% listing fee.
119 E. Theissen St. • Boerne, TX 78006 O: 210-478-7265 contact@solidrealtygroup.com • solidrealtygroup.com 50 SAWOMAN.COM
ANNE GAMBOA CRS, BROkER ASSOCIATE
A trusted and respected REALTOR®, Anne Gamboa has been a licensed broker since 1995 and offers over 25 years of real estate experience. She specializes in meeting the needs of both buyers and sellers, while completing transactions smoothly and making the process enjoyable. Past clients and colleagues alike are quick to tout her integrity, work ethic and responsiveness. Well-versed in all aspects that accompany a real estate transaction, Anne’s outstanding responsiveness and established connections have given her a legacy of singular customer service. She is renowned for her ability to seamlessly see a transaction through to closing. Anne is honored to be able to provide “The Very Best” to her clients and continually strives to exceed their goals.
6061 Broadway • San Antonio, Texas 78209 O: 210-408-4035 • C: 210-422-4693 agamboa@phyllisbrowning.com • phyllisbrowning.com
CAROLE TUBBESING
CATHY VISE
Carole Tubbesing is a consistent multi-million dollar producer who uses her legal and business background to finalize deals smoothly and keep the process as stress-free for clients as possible. She provides concierge service to her clients and is always ready with referrals, from repair companies to the best kid-friendly restaurants! Originally from California, Carole completed her BBA at the University of Notre Dame and her JD at Loyola Law School. Carole and her husband are parents of three teenagers.
Cathy Vise has been a San Antonian for over 25 years and possesses extensive knowledge of the city’s neighborhoods, schools and culture. Her certifications as Home Marketing Specialist, Negotiations Expert and Senior Real Estate Specialist allow Cathy to provide expert advice and fantastic service. Before entering real estate, Cathy was a flight attendant and earned a Marketing degree from Texas State University. Cathy enjoys volunteering and holds a seat on SABOR®'s REALTOR® Builder Committee.
4372 N. Loop 1604 West, Ste. 102 San Antonio, Texas 78249 O: 210-408-4065 C: 210-771-0828 ctubbesing@phyllisbrowning.com phyllisbrowning.com
4372 N. Loop 1604 West, Ste. 102 San Antonio, Texas 78249 O: 210-408-4042 C: 210-313-6382 cvise@phyllisbrowning.com phyllisbrowning.com
REALTOR®
REALTOR®
MARCH/APRIL 2019
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WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE LIZ CHIEGO
ABR, ASR, CRS, e-PRO, GRI, SRES, REALTOR®
6061 Broadway San Antonio, Texas 78209 lchiego@phyllisbrowning.com phyllisbrowning.com O: 210-824-7878 C: 210-771-0067
4001 N. New Braunfels Avenue, #204, San Antonio, Texas 78209 | $329,000 1 bedroom | 1 bath | Lock and leave pied-á-terre with outstanding amenities
TRACIE S. HASSLOCHER LICENSED REAL ESTATE BROKER/OWNER
8520 Crownhill Blvd. San Antonio, TX 78209 hasslocherrealestate.com O: 210-568-9595 C: 210-863-2629
19 Vineyard Drive — Dominion 4 bedrooms | 5 1/2 baths | 6,000+ sq ft Tall ceilings, his & hers offices, .8 acre lot
205 Shavano Dr. — Shavano Park 4 bedrooms | 3.5 baths | 3,000+ sq ft Open floor plan, .9 acre lot
CORIE BOLDT OWNER/BROKER
4901 Broadway, Suite 132 San Antonio, Texas 78209 corie@corieproperties.com corieproperties.com O: 210-824-1115 D: 210-262-4698
115 Geneseo Road — Terrell Hills 4 Bedrooms | 4 Full Baths, 2 Half Baths Price Upon Request
535 Elizabeth Road — Terrell Hills 4 Bedrooms | 4 Full Baths, 1 Half Bath Pool | Price Upon Request
LANA MARININ
REALTOR® Platinum Top 50 2017, 2018 and 2019
6735 IH 10 West, Suite 103 San Antonio, Texas 78201 LanaMarinin@gmail.com centerpointrealty.com C: 210-900-0600
4720 Amorosa Way | Near JW Marriott Resort and Hwy 1604/281 3 Bedrooms | 3 Baths | 3 Car Garage | Study | Wood Floors | Outdoor Kitchen 52 SAWOMAN.COM
SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION
CORIE BOLDT OWNER/BROkER
Corie Boldt is a native San Antonian. She is the Broker and Owner of CORIE PROPERTIES, managing over 20 successful agents. CORIE PROPERTIES is a boutique real estate firm focusing on all the philosophies Corie has collected over the years. The business model for CORIE PROPERTIES was developed for the agents to focus on the client’s needs instead of the bottom line. In return this makes the buying and selling process exciting and enjoyable for the buyers and sellers. CORIE PROPERTIES believes high-tech communication is critical to marketing properties, but the human element of hard working agents will always be the most essential part of the real estate process.
4901 Broadway, Suite 132 • San Antonio, TX 78209 D: 210-262-4698 • O: 210-824-1115 • F: 210-825-1116 corie@corieproperties.com • www.corieproperties.com
MARCH/APRIL 2019
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54 SAWOMAN.COM
Women in Business
SAWOMANCONNECT.COM
56 SAWOMAN.COM
SPOTLIGHT
Dr. Kristi Clark
PRESIDENT AND CEO HEALTH TEXAS MEDICAL GROUP
Who has been your biggest influence? My mother and father had the greatest influence on the person I am today. My mother was an elementary school teacher and my father was a sanitarian with MetroHealth. They taught me the value of hard work, integrity, and accountability and that everyday people do amazing things. What do you enjoy the most about your job? My relationships with my patients. As a physician, I am allowed into a patient’s world, frequently at a time of illness and vulnerability. They entrust me with their fears, goals, and desires. These relationships bring me the most satisfaction. What is the best advice you ever received? Well, I can’t say I personally received it… but there was a quotation I ran across in high school by Ralph Waldo Emerson that I never forgot. It reminds me daily that small actions make a magnificent life. “To leave the world a bit better, whether by a healthy child, a garden patch, or a redeemed social condition; to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived — that is to have succeeded.” How is HealthTexas staying ahead of the trends of healthcare? Patients want more out of their health care experience, and they should. They want value, access, and professionalism. Patients want their time as well as their opinions to be respected. To that end, HealthTexas was one of the first large primary care groups in San Antonio to be fully integrated into an Electronic Health Record. We have adopted patient portals so patients and family members can review test results as well as communicate directly with their physician. Scheduling appointments or refilling prescriptions can be accomplished online or through a secure phone app. All of our associates and providers strive to run on time and provide a pleasant experience from start to finish when entering any of our clinics. What is something you want our readers to know about HealthTexas? HealthTexas has been providing primary care to this community for over 25 years and that wasn’t by accident. The physician founders of HealthTexas (several of whom are still practicing in our clinic locations today) built a medical group based on the notion that a partnership between a patient and their doctor comes first… that never goes out of style. MARCH/APRIL 2019
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WOMEN ON THE MOVE DR. KRISTI CLARK
TAYLOR CUNNINGHAM
Dr. Kristi Clark, who served as senior medical director for HealthTexas Medical Group, has been promoted to president and chief executive officer. A San Antonio native, Dr. Clark has been a speaker at many San Antonio community events and assisted living facilities, covering topics such as diabetes, hypertension, depression, and memory loss. Dr. Clark earned her medical degree from Texas Tech School of Medicine. She completed her residency in internal medicine at UT Health Science Center of San Antonio.
SWBC Employee Benefits Consulting Group is excited to announce that Taylor Cunningham has joined the team as Employee Benefits Consultant. In this role, she’s responsible for providing clients with expert advice regarding the healthcare marketplace and designing and implementing benefit plan solutions to help clients achieve business goals. She’s a graduate of Texas A&M University. Cunningham serves as Vice Chair of United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County’s Emerging Leaders Council, and is a committee chair for the Junior League of San Antonio.
ELIZABETH EGUIA-GARCIA
MARISA BALDERAS FLORES
Project QUEST appointed Elizabeth (Elí) Eguía-García as its Director of Community Partnerships, to oversee a newly created Community Partnerships Team. Eguia-Garcia brings with her 20+ years of professional philanthropic fundraising and community relations expertise that will help advance QUEST’s mission. Throughout her career, Eguia-Garcia has served the community by working in the nonprofit sector for both public and private educational institutions. She received her Master of Arts from St. Mary’s University and a Bachelor of Arts from Our Lady of the Lake University.
Marisa Balderas Flores has over eleven years of immigration and civil litigation experience. Marisa represents clients in a wide range of immigration matters including corporate and family-based applications, and international custody disputes filed under the Hague Convention. Marisa received her B.B.A. in International Business from St. Mary’s University, and J.D. from the University of Oregon. Marisa is admitted to practice in the State of Texas, Supreme Court, Fifth Circuit, and Southern and Western Districts of Texas.
AMANDA MCCHESNEY
ROBYN POPA
Amanda McChesney recently accepted the position of Senior Vice President, Private Banking Relationship Manager at The Bank of San Antonio. Amanda develops customized banking solutions for her clients with a focus on an elevated, service-oriented partnership. She provides exclusive resources such as estate and family legacy planning and leverages her commercial banking background to provide strategic partnership to business owners and their families seeking to optimize growth. Amanda joined The Bank of San Antonio in 2017 and has over 11 years of banking experience.
Robyn Popa, AIA, LEED AP, has been named Partner of Pfluger Architects. Working out of Pfluger's San Antonio office for 16 years, Robyn has helped school districts across Texas build extraordinary campuses. She has worked on many award-winning projects, most notably Cibolo Green Elementary School, the first public school in Texas to achieve LEED Gold certification, along with many state-wide awards. Robyn is also the current President of the South Texas Chapter of A4LE.
DIANE S. SANCHEZ
GINA TEMPLE
The San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors elected Diane S. Sánchez as its new President and CEO. Sánchez is a native Texan and graduate of the University of Texas at Austin. She has extensive C-suite executive experience in the Technology, Media, and Telecom (TMT) sector with extensive senior management experience in operations, strategic partnerships, corporate transformation, acquisitions, and market entry engaging in transformational technology. She has also played several key leadership roles in transforming the America’s TMT infrastructure.
Gina Temple is the CEO of Mission Trail Baptist Hospital, the first woman to lead the Southside hospital. With over 26 years of healthcare experience, Gina's primary objective is to provide access to high-quality healthcare delivered by compassionate healthcare providers. She feels a strong obligation to model the way for other female hospital executives and to support the development of strong female leaders within healthcare. Her passion is developing organizational cultures that yield extraordinary experiences and outcomes for patients, employees, and physicians.
58 SAWOMAN.COM
BUSINESS CALENDAR March 5 CREW- Commercial Real Estate Women San Antonio Luncheon San Antonio Country Club 11:30 AM
March 23 Junior League of San Antonio Viva! SA Race Hemisfair 9:00 AM
crew-sanantonio.org
jlsa.org
March 5 NAWBO- National Association of Women Business Owners Member Orientation J.P. Morgan Private Bank 8:30 AM
March 27 San Antonio Women’s Chamber of Commerce Smart Women Series San Antonio Water System Customer Service Building 11:30 AM
nawbosa.org
sawomenschamber.org
March 11 NAWBO- National Association of Women Business Owners Lunch Connections 7330 San Pedro Avenue 11:30 AM
March 28 NAWBO- National Association of Women Business Owners Women Business Owner Awards SSFCU Event Center 6:30 PM
April 4 North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce CIO Lunch: AI – Real Innovation Norris Conference Center 11:00 AM northsachamber.com
nawbosa.org
March 12 North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce Power Networking Breakfast Norris Conference Center 7:00 AM northsachamber.com
April 11 IMPACT San Antonio Member Engagement Event Pearl Tour and Architecture & Preservation Lecture The Pearl 5:30 PM impactsanantonio.org
April 5 Junior League of San Antonio Unstoppable Passion for Purpose Luncheon Henry B Gonzalez Convention Center TIME TBD
April 15 CREW- Commercial Real Estate Women San Antonio Luncheon San Antonio Country Club 11:30 AM crew-sanantonio.org
jlsa.org
April 5 San Antonio Women’s Chamber of Commerce Fiesta Mixer Institute of Texan Cultures 5:30 PM
nawbosa.org
sawomenschamber.org
April 3 North San Antonio Chamber of Commerce Power Networking Breakfast Norris Conference Center 7:00 AM
April 9 NAWBO- National Association of Women Business Owners Coffee Connections Eggspectations 7:30 to 9 AM
northsachamber.com
nawbosa.org
April 16 IMPACT San Antonio Nonprofit Agency Grant Training University Methodist Church 10:00 AM impactsanantonio.org
April 25 NAWBO- National Association of Women Business Owners Monthly Meeting LUNCH Hilton Doubletree 11:00 AM nawbosa.org
MARCH/APRIL 2019
59
FASHION
3 2
1
By Aquila Mendez-Valdez
THE BEST STYLE FOR EVERY EVENT ON YOUR CALENDAR
I’ll admit, when I first moved to San Antonio I didn’t
dress up more than what they normally might do,” says Percy.
understand Fiesta. It seemed to be a rather odd mix of
“A playful dress or a fun skirt. Something that shows you have
events, and folks were very concerned with these medals that
embraced the Fiesta spirit.”
didn’t seem to have a purpose other than the joy of collecting
For more style inspiration, I spoke with Tressa Castro,
them. Of course, I now understand the history and reverence
owner of Nativa boutique in Alamo Heights who simply
with which San Antonians view this annual bonanza of
wants women to be freer while planning their wardrobe for the
parades, nights out, and royal appearances. Perhaps even
Champagne and Diamonds Brunch or the King William Fair.
more so, I understand that every woman in San Antonio
"Sometimes the best look isn't the one that hugs every
mentally prepares her closet for the month of April. What to
curve," Castro says. "Instead opt for a style so stunning with
wear to each commitment, how to prepare for the invariably
colors and comfort that the confidence of the woman wearing
high temperatures, it can be overwhelming. Here to help us
it can't be denied." Reach, perhaps, for one of the authentic
navigate the colorful, yet murky waters of Fiesta fashion are
Otomi Vuelo blouses with multicolor
two of San Antonio’s favorite local retailers.
embroidery and an off the shoulder neckline. “We are also
Courtney Percy, Vice President of Marketing for Julian
caftan crazy here at
Gold, says she loves to see bold style during Fiesta most of
Nativa! This is a great
all. “It’s an opportunity to step outside of your comfort zone,”
silhouette for all body
she says. “From vibrant colors to festive cuts and styles, there
types, and touches
is so much opportunity to dress the festive part.”
on our philosophy of being
A perfect way to ease into the more
comfortable without com-
bold styles of Fiesta might be with
promising style.”
some statement earrings like a pair
Look to Julian Gold’s
of Mercedes Salazar strawberry
Alice and Olivia printed
earrings, available at Julian Gold.
pants and striped tie
“It is such a busy social season that
blouse for unexpected
allows anyone and everyone the opportunity to attend an event and 60 SAWOMAN.COM
mixing and matching. 4
Percy says Spring 2019
5
is all about mixing up colors and print, with Pink Peacock, Tumeric, and Fiesta Red being a few colors that dominated the runway this season. Castro only recommends staying away from Papel Picado, paper flowers, or paper confetti during Fiesta, as they’ve seen many Fiesta outfits, including their handmade guayaberas, ruined by them.
6
Of course, there are only as many rules as you create for yourself during Fiesta, so it truly should be an opportunity to let one's creativity shine through. When in doubt, add a pop of neon color with a statement purse like this Kate Spade bucket bag from Julian Gold, sprinkle a dash of culture and handmade Mexican embroidery from Nativa, and you have a recipe for success.
7
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SHOPPING INFORMATION: 1. Puebla Carry-All at Nativa Boutique. 2. Alice and Olivia striped tie blouse from Julian Gold. 3. Julian Gold’s Alice and Olivia printed pants. 4. Mercedes Salazar strawberry earrings, available at Julian Gold. 5. Flower Power Sandal Ribbon at Nativa Boutique. 6. Bright Yellow Bucket bag by Kate Spade at Julian Gold. 7. Xochitl Blouse available at Nativa Boutique. 8. Otomi Vuelo blouse with multicolor embroidery and an off the shoulder neckline at Nativa Boutique.
Viva Fiesta!
MARCH/APRIL 2019
61
BEAUTY
Living Coral is Pantone’s Color of the Year & Your New Best Friend for Spring By Aquila Mendez-Valdez
The Pantone Color
right amount and in the right item," she
try depending on your skin preferences.
Institute started
says. "This particular color is great to
For a dewy finish, try Glossier’s cult-
declaring a particular
add into your makeup: lipstick and
favorite cloud paint with just a few dabs
color the trendiest,
glosses, even nail polish."
and blend along the cheekbone. If a
the most symbolic,
powder is
As for any product that may not look flattering in this shade, Francine-Parker
more your
the times in 2000, but the annual
only recommends staying away from
style,
selection truly caught fire with the
eye shadow. “Don’t try to match the
NARS’
or simply a sign of
advent of social media and our
color in multiple areas, bring it in only
Torrid
incessant desire to know what's "in."
once in your outfit or makeup,” she
shade is a
The first Color of the Year was Cerulean
says. “San Antonians will embrace
warm
if you're wondering, and the 2019
Living Coral because it’s an uplifting and
coral with golden shimmer. Practically
choice is Living Coral. We spoke with
cheerful shade that can be used for
begging to be your new spring and
two style experts in San Antonio to find
brunch or outdoor events.”
summer go-to.
out how this color can be added to your beauty routine, and if it reflects a greater trend in society as a whole. Axelle Francine-Parker is the newly minted founder and CEO of Le Petit
For a gateway product to test the new shade on yourself, try a lip tint or sheer gloss before moving up to matte or hyper-pigmented lipsticks. Julian Gold Vice President of
Med Spa in Leon Springs, just past
Marketing Courtney Percy says she
La Cantera and The Rim. The facility
believes cosmetic brands have to be
boasts a remarkable number of holistic services encompassing styling, facials,
thrilled with the Pantone color choice. "It's a much more wearable choice than last year's ultraviolet," she says. "Coral
body treatments,
makeup has a natural peachy hue that
Besides being on trend, it’s also
and much more.
neutralizes the skin's own undertones,
culturally relevant. “I love how Pantone
Francine-Parker
warming your natural complexion.” It’s a
chose Living Coral to represent our
says Living
gorgeous combination for blush in
oceans and to bring awareness about
Coral is a color
particular, and there are two routes to
their current status,” says Francine-
anyone can
Parker. Percy adds, “I think it is a
wear because
refreshing choice. It pairs well with other
anyone can
colors and fits in nicely with Spring 2019
wear any color. "It just has to be in the 62 SAWOMAN.COM
Perhaps most endearing of all is the purpose behind Pantone’s choice.
fashion trends.”
FABULOUS FINDS
SUNSET RIDGE HOME & HARDWARE VIVA! Celebrate Fiesta in style by shopping the most fun collection of colorful, fiesta-inspired jewelry in San Antonio. Find more fun on Instagram — @sunset_ridge_hardware.
6438 N. New Braunfels Ave.
210.930.1717
sunsetridgehardware.com
TEXAS DOVE HUNTERS ASSOCIATION With your 2019 standard membership you will receive a TDHA hat, decal and 2 issues of Texas Dove Hunters magazine. 3 year and Life memberships are also available.
900 NE Loop 410, Suite D213
210.764.1189
texasdovehunters.com
PEÑALOZA & SONS Color your world beautiful with diamond and colored stone ring guards. Mix and match color for the coordinated fashion look of the season. Available in platinum, yellow or white gold at Peñaloza & Sons.
2001 N.W. Military Hwy.
210.340.3536
penalozaandsons.com
MARCH/APRIL 2019
63
ACTIVE LIVING
Money Management in the Golden Years By Jennifer O’Neill
Things to consider and ways we can assist our senior parents and loved ones in managing their finances
Spring is upon
than you can manage and need help. If you fall into either of
us, and you know
these roles, understanding the situation, creating and timing
what that means:
a plan to go into action, and communicating throughout the
bluebonnets,
process will aid in avoiding confusion and financial mishaps
beautiful weather,
that could possibly occur.
AND tax season.
When I married into my husband’s family, I always heard
It’s that special
about Silly Millie, his grandmother on his father’s side. She
time of year when
was 87 when I joined the family. Millie was the sweetest lady,
we call to mind our earnings and spending and scramble to
so funny, full of life, loving of her four boys (and grandchildren),
gather financial information.
smart, and, without fail, always dressed to impress. One of
With today’s technology, tracking and managing your spending and finances, even the act of making a purchase is
my favorite Millie stories is her penchant for always looking fashionable and the spending she did to maintain that. Her
easy and accessible with the ability to do it all from your
fashion sense was something she acquired from a young
phone or computer. While technology can help make life a
age while working as an executive assistant to the vice-
little easier, it might not always be the case particularly with
president at Pittsburgh’s PPG and continued it on through
the seniors in our lives. There may come a time when they
her golden years
need assistance with monitoring their financial activity with it
even after
possibly becoming too much to manage. Another important
retirement. The
topic to consider is preparing for what happens after they
standout of this
are gone. It can be tough to approach, bringing stress and
story, and now
possibly even denial from both sides whether you’re the
humorous part for all
adult child who must take on the responsibility of providing
of our family, is how
assistance or the senior parent or loved one who must face
her four sons could
the reality that handling that part of your life may be more
not keep up with the
64 SAWOMAN.COM
spending habits of their 80-something-year-old mother, and
husband died and began using spending as a way to fill a
they all agree she was smarter than they were. It didn’t help
void. Reminders should also be put out there to be wary of
that they were all spread out across the country to have a
any preapproved credit accounts received and any
better grasp of the spending she did, but some of her
telemarketer calls offering savings on unwanted products
favorite spots included the woman’s clothing store Chico’s
and services.
and shopping channels. She also couldn’t pass up the opportunity to buy gifts for her family. As long as banks kept sending her credit cards, she kept opening accounts, assuming it was ok since she was preapproved. Her story is a real-life example of what could happen when things slip through the cracks and go unmonitored, and it also presents signs to look out for and ways to prepare to ensure your loved one’s quality of life is cared for and unaffected with financial burdens.
Starting a conversation to address financial information may be hard to begin for a number of reasons, the biggest one being he or she is the parent, and you don’t want to overstep boundaries. It is important to be firm, determined, and explain your
Throughout it all, communication is key between you, your siblings, and your loved one.
input as an advisory role to help to ensure money is going to the right places. A good time to begin this conversation may
It is especially vital when the time comes to consider and
be at the time they are considering retirement — does he or
discuss what happens after they are gone. This conversation
she have a plan in place for maintaining the lifestyle he
can be particularly hard, but I’ve found from personal
currently has? Your role as the advisor can help in learning
experience that a window of opportunity to discuss these
the financial state your loved one is in: where will income
matters can sometimes arise from the passing of another,
come from and how much will be received from retirement
whether it is a family member or friend. You or your loved
savings and social security? Sometimes retirement income
can use that time to turn the discussion toward her to
combined with social security earnings is not enough to
discuss if a will is drawn or if one is already in place and
cover big expenses such as a mortgage, rent, and other
what is planned and outlined within it if any life insurance
incidental expenses. Another essential factor is accounting
policies are available, and the biggest factor for these
for any debt, how much and from where. To go along with
documents is where they can be found. Even funeral
that, it is also very important to know what type of spending
arrangements can be discussed. Many times senior parents
habits he possesses. Has he always been a big spender on
have already made all of the necessary preparations and
frivolous items or frugal about small and big purchases?
covered the expenses associated with it to alleviate that
Maybe setting up automated payment schedules for
burden for their families. As the recipient of this information,
monthly expenses could save time and confusion to ensure
it might be hard to accept and listen, but it is important not
those are covered. And if you begin to see more spending
to dismiss or forget information shared.
on unnecessary items, check to make sure there is not an
Planning and preparing won’t happen overnight, but
underlying issue associated with it. My family found that
working together can save unwanted worry and stress for all
Millie had gone through a period of depression after her
involved in more ways than one. MARCH/APRIL 2019
65
66 SAWOMAN.COM
H-E-B proudly celebrates its 17th anniversary as the Local Title Sponsor of the 2019 Susan G. Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure. Since 1997, Komen San Antonio has invested more than $19.1 million in innovative breast cancer education, screening and treatment. Funds raised in San Antonio also provides important breast cancer research. H-E-B is committed to finding an end to cancer through our partnerships with organizations like Susan G. Komen San Antonio because we know that the battle is something that impacts so many of our H-E-B Partners and customers. I invite you to share in our collective team spirit and join us at the 2019 Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure. By joining us, you are ensuring valuable support for a disease that truly affects all San Antonians, either personally or through our friends, families and neighbors. Please consider registering or making a donation today at komensanantonio.org. You will help our community celebrate, remember and give hope that one day we will find the cure. WE LIVE HERE. WE RACE HERE. WE SAVE LIVES HERE. Sincerely, Jaime Lozano H-E-B General Manager at I-10 and Dezavala
Dear Friends: As the Honorary Chair of the 22nd Annual Susan G. Komen San Antonio Race for the Cure, I invite you to make a difference in the fight against breast cancer by supporting this important community gathering as a participant. All of us have a connection to this terrible disease. My family and I have been personally affected by cancer, and know first-hand how it can hurt patients and families. That’s why the Beldon family is taking a stand and committed to ensuring every patient gets the care they need, and that we get closer to finding the cures. We’ve come a long way, but there is still a lot of work to do. I invite you to join my family and me as we Race for the Cure on May 4th. Visit komensanantonio.org to register and get involved. Let’s save lives together! With Gratitude, Brad Beldon CEO, Beldon ®
A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN
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4
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Komen San Antonio conducted a Community Profile to become more responsive to breast cancer healthcare gaps and ensure that everyone has the opportunity to receive the breast cancer care and services they need. *Service map at right shows Susan G. Komen San Antonio Priority Areas and zip codes with the most need. For the published Community Profile report, please visit komensanantonio.org.
WHERE A WOMAN LIVES, SHOULD NOT DETERMINE WHETHER SHE LIVES.
Your Dollars at Work “Susan G. Komen and its mission have been a part of what I do every day for as long as I can remember. As a mammographer and patient navigator it is great to know that Komen is there to extend assistance to my patients in their time of need. I like knowing I’m part of extending that effort to my community.” Lisa K. Lopez RT(M), BN-CI Patient Breast Health Navigator CHRISTUS Santa Rosa
“I’m glad the transportation program exists. The program made it possible for me to go to treatment. I was never late or left without a ride. I’m really appreciative of the rides and Susan G Komen for helping fund the program.” Epimenia Perez Breast Cancer Survivor Amercian Cancer Society
“The Komen Foundation saves lives.” Leticia Baca Patient Navigator University Health System
“Komen San Antonio has been a long standing partner of ThriveWell Cancer Foundation. Countless women have been able to not only survive but THRIVE after their treatment because of the local funding Komen raises to help those in need. THANK YOU KOMEN!” Erin Ercoline, Exective Director, ThriveWell
“Komen funding was a huge blessing if it wasn’t for them I might have never known I had cancer till it was too late. The Komen Foundation may have saved my life.” Janette Salazar Ramos Currently undergoing treatment for Ductal Carcinoma In-situ University Health System
“My husband lost his job shortly before I found a lump in my breast. Without the support of Komen, I wouldn’t have been able to get the scan that confirmed I had cancer. Thankfully I’ll be OK because we caught it early…because of Komen!” Candi ThriveWell
“Susan G. Komen here in San Antonio helps eliminates the barrier to treatment for our patients. Along with the American Cancer Society, our partnership creates hope and ultimately, saves lives.” Lindsay McElwee, American Cancer Society Executive Director
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A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN
SurvivorStory
Besties for Breasties One thing we all have in common with each other is that we all know someone who has been diagnosed with breast cancer. It may be a friend, a sister, an aunt, a mom or grandmother. It could even be you. You may be a warrior who is currently going through your own personal journey or you could be a Survivor who has already fought the battle and won. It is difficult to see how it affects the person diagnosed and how it also affects their loved ones. My name is Missy Rael and I was diagnosed with Ductal Carcinoma. In Situ, breast cancer back in 2008. I was blessed that it was caught at an early stage and had to undergo two surgeries, received 6 1/2 weeks of radiation and was also prescribed Tamoxifin otherwise known as the chemo pill. Since then I have been an advocate for other women in our community and knew immediately that I wanted to make a difference and become more involved. I knew I had to begin raising funds to help other women diagnosed with breast cancer. I did my research with various non-profits but felt the instant connection with Susan G. Komen. In 2009 I started my team and began recruiting team members for that year’s Race for the Cure. Two years later after my diagnosis one of my closest and dear friends Pat Shreder was also diagnosed with breast cancer. She instantly became as passionate as I was in doing all we could do to help the women in our community and we changed my team name to “Besties for Breasties” and have been team captains together ever since. The name seemed very fitting because too many of our friends have also been diagnosed since we were. Our team “Besties for Breasties” has grown from a handful of women to well over 100 along with their families. For the past ten years Pat and I have coordinated numerous fundraisers which have kept us as one of the top fundraising teams in San Antonio. In 2018 our team had the honor of actually being number one. It’s definitely an honor, however, in our eyes every team is number one because we are all as passionate, we work together and have one common goal. Some of our fundraisers include our annual Silent Auction/Dinners, our most recent one took place last year at the historic Old Helotes Inn and called it “Let’s Flamingle for a Cure!” We had our very successful “Dance for the Cure” at a popular St. Mary’s Street venue called The Amp Room. Other of our numerous fundraising events have included Kendra Scott, Brighton Jewelry, Painting with a Twist, Scentsy, Pampered Chef, Top Golf, BJs restaurant, Krispi Kreme, Vendor fairs and Spurs Ticket Raffles. Each year we try to come up with something different to add to our events and we have been very blessed to have many sponsors and supporters throughout the years. Pat also has designed our team medal for Fiesta medal events. How can you help? Join “Besties for Breasties” and help us continue to meet our fundraising goals! We want to continue to assist the women in our community who need our help! Help us fulfill our dream and imagine a life without breast cancer!
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A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN
Susan G. Komen San Antonio Honors the Beldon Family for their generosity through the inaugural Beldon Cares Campaign. We thank you for your commitment and dedication to saving lives in our community and finding the cures. You are helping us reach a world without breast cancer!
More than 450 Beldon home improvement team members sported pink safety vests, hard hats and lanyards for the month of October as The BELDON™ Group of Companies introduced The BELDON Cares Program to increase awareness of breast cancer and raise funding for research. “Unfortunately, many of us have been affected, or know someone who has been affected, by breast cancer,” said Brad Beldon, CEO of The BELDON™ Group of Companies. “We are committed to helping find a cure for this awful disease.” With this in mind, TEAM BELDON installed gutters, windows, insulation, roofing systems, and house siding — many dressed in pink attire to show their support for people who have been affected by breast cancer. “For generations, we have been proud to ensure that houses are comprised of long-lasting quality materials—but we know that it’s the people who live there that make each of these houses a home,” added Brad Beldon. “Through The BELDON Cares Program, we are honored to support families who have been affected by breast cancer. We’re dedicated to increasing awareness and raising funds for research.”
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A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN
A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN
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TOP FUNDRAISERS
2018 Race for the Cure Top Fundraising Team Besties for Breasties 2018
2018 Race for the Cure Top Fundraising Individual & Survivor/ Fighter – Laura Carver
TOP SPONSORS These sponsors are helping to save lives in our city and find the cures against breast cancer! LOCAL TITLE SPONSOR
PLATINUM SPONSORS
PRESENTING MEDIA
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A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN
HEALTH
Liver Health?
Yes! It’s really a thing By Berit Mason
B
efore America got fat, a damaged liver was contributed to drinking. If someone had
“cirrhosis of the liver,” well, they were
probably an alcoholic. But now, doctors are monitoring the
The liver is among our vital organs, It is the CEO of our metabolic functions,
Today's patients have modern risk factors, which include:
managing toxins that we ingest. It is our
BEING OVERWEIGHT, OR OBESE
right behind the brain, heart, and lungs.
second largest organ, behind the skin,
HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE
and is our largest internal organ. If the
CHOLESTEROL
rise of fatty liver, or non-alcoholic fatty
brain is our central command, the liver is
liver disease, NAFLD. This disease is
the workhorse.
DIABETES
where fat causes a cirrhotic liver. “With fatty liver, it is fat in the liver,
“The liver does a lot of different
Some patients, have all of those.
and it should not be here. Fat is very
things. It makes bile, to help with
Hispanics especially, are genetically
irritating, to the liver. That irritation
digestion. It processes a lot of what
predisposed, to fatty liver disease.
can cause inflammation, and if you
we take into our body, to get rid of
irritate something long enough, you
toxic substances. It is helpful in
A most dangerous aspect of the ailment is that people don't know, that
get scarring,” says Dr. Zarema
making energy for us, it turns
there's anything wrong.“Most patients
Singson of Gastroenterology
glucose into glycogen, it makes
do not have symptoms,” says Dr.
Consultants of San Antonio.
proteins and blood-clotting factors,
Singson. Often, it is discovered through
so it does a lot of different things,”
routine lab work, or when a patient
says Dr. Singson.
undergoes testing for something else.
Scarring happens as the liver tries to repair itself, from whatever damage is inflicted on it. But, too much scarring, or fibrosis, leads to the end game of cirrhosis of the liver. 84 SAWOMAN.COM
The good news is that healthy livers “A lot of my patients will say: 'Well, I've never had a drink in my whole life!’”
regenerate. It is the only organ that can completely regrow itself. Because of
this, damage done to a healthy liver
and supplements, as the liver must
can be reversed, if it is caught in the
metabolize those too.
early stages.
Losing weight helps. John Hopkins Medicine states that: “… by losing weight, liver enzymes may normalize and liver inflammation may improve.” And that: “Studies show that losing 10 percent of your weight causes the liver enzymes to improve, which correlates with a reduction in the liver inflamma-tion caused by the extra fat.” “I tell a lot of my patients to focus on diet and exercise, but it is so hard to do,” says Singson. So, liver disease comes from too much alcohol, too much fat, but also from Hepatitis B, and Hepatitis C. They
Food has a big impact. That's why Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio employs a nutritionist, Sonia Rodriguez. “The best advice to support liver health would be to include a variety of
are less common — but they can lead
foods in the diet that provide balance
to cirrhosis.
and structured eating throughout the day, to promote blood sugar and hormone regulation, along with regular exercise or activity.” While the FDA states that there is a 'reasonable certainty of no harm' when it comes to our food's additives and preservatives, other nutritionists go further about how diet affects livers. Georgiana Gross, MPH, is a research nutritionist with UT Health San Antonio. She suggests choosing foods closest to
Another danger, posed to the
their natural state. "Food additives,
liver, comes from the pills we
such as preservatives, artificial dyes,
take. Ibuprofen and acetaminophen
pesticides, and other contaminants,
carry warning labels, regarding their
may have a detrimental impact on
toxicity. Remember: livers deal with
general health. Educating the public on
toxins. That is why some doctors don't
label reading is essential for those
take anything at all.
individuals with sensitivities, or for those
“The liver processes a lot of what we take into our gut. So, that helps to get
desiring a diet somewhat free of artificial substances.”
rid of the toxic substances … and that can be a lot of the medications. We do know with cholesterol medications, statins, there can be some chance of injury,” says Dr. Singson. Americans take a lot of prescribed medications, and there is concern about toxicity there. Check labels of vitamins
Gross says buying foods with fewer than FOUR INGREDIENTS means avoiding those additives and preservatives, found further down on ingredients lists, and in processed foods. MARCH/APRIL 2019
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MOMMY MATTERS
The Importance of Inclusivity By Pamela V. Miller
Every parent wants their child to feel safe, accepted, included, and happy — not just in their learning environment, but in their social life as well. To achieve this for my children, we spent a good portion of the toddler years exploring ways in which we could keep them involved and socializing with other kids their age. Our goal was to help them learn how to make new friends and if need be, how to deal with adversity in relationships early on.
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addition to teaching them how to socialize, we found it important to expose them to all the different
familiar with special needs children. Every parent wants their child to feel safe, accepted, included, and happy — regardless of their child’s
people with whom they could
abilities. One way that we can
socialize. We wanted our children to
eliminate the fear and help all
be embracing of cultural diversity,
children feel included is through
different socio-economic
inclusivity. If we want to know more
backgrounds, and people of different
about children with special needs,
abilities. We attended a variety of
we need to be inclusive. This might
social functions and explored
mean being a little more patient,
different parks throughout the city
understanding, and accepting.
to give our children a well-rounded
This means asking questions, being
view of the world and all of the
kind, and showing compassion.
people in it. Of all the steps we’ve taken to create a realistic world view for our children, one of the most valuable
This means getting to know them and love them for everything they have to offer. As parents, we also have the
experiences we’ve had is having a
responsibility of teaching our children
neighbor whose child has special
inclusivity. Special needs children
needs. Our children understand his
might have different abilities than
needs might be different from theirs,
other children, but they have their
but they don’t exclude him from play
own valuable talents and strengths
as a result. Instead, they’ve learned to
that can easily be seen if you spend
be more patient and understanding.
some time with them.
They’ve learned that sometimes, he might do something that they don’t fully understand, but they accept and love him for who he is anyway. Every chance the weather permits them to
Everyone has something to offer, and your children will better learn this if they are given the opportunity to.
go outside, they are sure to ring his doorbell and invite him out to play. Although we love and embrace
It’s as simple as teaching our children to embrace each other,
our neighbor’s different abilities, it’s
regardless of abilities, and to have
important to point out that this isn’t
compassion and sensitivity towards
always the case. Children with
others — and doing this is so
special needs are often
powerful. It creates a safe and happy
misunderstood and sometimes
place for everyone to enjoy.
excluded from play or social events
Don’t fear the unknown! If you don’t know of any children with special needs and are unsure of how to approach them, simply ask their parents! They might do things a little differently than other kids, but love and understanding can go a long way to squash those fears.
If you’ve never been around
as a result. One reason people
children with special needs, there is
exclude them is because of fear of
a lot to learn and it may not always
the unknown. They may not have
be easy, but they are all worth it.
ever had any experience with a child
It’s true that not all situations might
who has special needs and aren’t
be the best fit for a child with special
sure how to react, or they
needs, but making the effort to
underestimate their abilities.
include them in some shape or form
Whatever the situation may be, the
can make a huge difference in both
answer might be to become more
of your lives.
Talk, talk, talk! Have a conversation with your children about children with special needs. Help them to work through the fear of the unknown by educating them and yourself. We all have different abilities, talents, and strengths- special needs children are no different. Read. Have your children read stories about special needs children or stories where the protagonist is a child with special needs. Point out the character's talents, strengths, and contributions to the story. They will quickly learn not to judge a book by its cover. Include children with disabilities in your playgroups, social gatherings, and celebrations. If you meet a special needs child at school, the park, or anywhere else, encourage your child to include them in play in any way that they can. They like to have fun just as much as any kid does! Encourage your child to be an advocate. If they know of a special needs child who might enjoy an activity or gathering, teach them that it’s okay to speak up and suggest an invite be extended to that child. Inclusivity pertains to everyone and being excluded is a form of bullying. Teach your child to stand up for what’s right. Enjoy a day at Morgan’s Wonderland! Show your children that all kids can have fun together — regardless of their abilities.
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MOMMY MATTERS EXTRA
Sticks, Stones, & Words Hurt By Christie Cuthbert
I say it to my boys countless times a week. You know, that age-old parental reminder of, "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." It’s a message we’ve passed down for generations in an attempt to make our children feel better when someone calls them a name or makes fun of them. As long as someone isn’t punching you in the stomach and stealing your lunch, you’re Teflon and nothing hurtful sticks right? Another favorite is, “I’m rubber, you’re glue, whatever you say bounces off of me and sticks to you.” What Shakespeare-wannabe mom or dad came up with that winner?
The problem with telling my kids these sayings is in the real world, they're not true. Words do hurt, and can often stay with us far longer than someone tripping us in the halls or giving us a wedgie. I’m sure most adults can remember some awful nickname someone gave them in elementary school. And while average kids may come home with hurt feelings every once and a while, those with learning disabilities and special needs feel those words much deeper. The beautiful straight-A student who got called dumb at recess knows she’s not and will brush it off by the end of the week. But the child with dyslexia or processing delays will take it to heart, already aware he’s behind in class. It will begin to erode his confidence, diminishing his self-worth. The same can be said for the child with tics who legitimately can’t stop making an odd sound or feverishly blinking his eyes. His emotions are already working on overdrive, well aware that everyone is staring, and he has no control. I’ve been the mom who has the child get off the bus, tears in his eyes from hurtful words that will stick. I’ve also been the mom where that same child who struggles, has pointed or laughed at the differences of another. While these moments grate at my heart, they are teachable opportunities. We as parents must demonstrate to our children that everyone has differences. Every single one of us. We also need to exchange the word “different” for “unique” and start focusing on how everyone has strengths and weaknesses. “If we all looked the same, acted the same, how boring would this planet be?” I tell my boys. “Be a leader in the campaign for kindness, the universe has a purpose for each and every one of us here.” 88 SAWOMAN.COM
HILL COUNTRY WOMAN
Thriving in the Hill Country
Successful Women Business Owners in Boerne and Comfort By Jennifer O’Neill Photography by David Teran
Running a business is no small order, but it can be fun. These hill country women share their stories in their ventures as business owners and the great experiences they’ve had along the way.
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Shawn Beach Calamity Jane’s Trading Co. and Daisy Pearl, Boerne Starting and running a business is no small feat, but when you decide to run two, you have to be pretty dedicated, love what you do, and more importantly, have fun while you're doing it. Shawn Beach, owner of both Calamity Jane's Trading Co. and Daisy Pearl in Boerne, has been doing just that for the past 15 years. When the California native first moved to Boerne 25 years ago with her husband and two sons, she was originally working in architectural and interior design. She is seasoned in the field with 30 years of experience in residential work, but things shifted when she ran into the problem of not finding what she was looking for to fulfill everything she wanted in her design projects. From there she decided to open the furniture store Calamity Jane’s with the intention of carrying pieces that she wanted to place in the homes she was designing. Her store carries a variety of pieces from all over the world and ranges from large items such as sofas, beds, and end tables, to accessories and gift items. Design services are also available. Her second store, Daisy Pearl, is a clothing boutique which carries boho-inspired looks and everyday wear. It came along eight years later in an organic fashion after she started experimenting with carrying a few clothing items in Calamity Jane’s. When she got the opportunity to move to a bigger building for the furniture store, she separated both and Daisy Pearl was established. Both places provide the best of both worlds for her as she confessed to loving clothes just as much as she loves furniture. How she manages to run and maintain both stores comes together through a combination of things. First, she compliments her extraordinary staff in helping her stating, “You’re as good as your help.” Another contribution to her success is the top priority she places on customer service. She is very appreciative of the loyal customers she has served over the years, having seen families who walk through her door grow with children and grandchildren. And lastly, she recognizes how retail business is changing and desires to meet and cover all customer needs — going back full circle to how things all started for her. She accomplishes that with the eclectic, one-of-a-kind quality pieces she carries in the furniture store, such as a favorite collection of hers, Jason Scott. In Daisy Pearl, she provides various styles and quality pieces to accommodate different people’s tastes. And she enjoys it all sharing, "Retail is a lot of work, but a lot of fun." MARCH/APRIL 2019
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HILL COUNTRY WOMAN
Pam Hegener Cedar Eaters of Texas, Comfort
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"Never say never," or in the case of Pam Hegener, "Never say retire," because that is exactly what happened when she and her husband moved to the Texas Hill Country in 2001. Hegener explains they were more than ready and had every intention of doing so when making their move from Louisiana to the Boerne area after years of running a large industrial construction/pipeline company. But you could say the role of the business owner came looking for them once again. It all started when they began the process of clearing their new property of brush and discovering different equipment would be needed to get the job done. From that discovery, Cedar Eaters of Texas was born and took off due to the high demand for that type of service in the area. Being in the business of cedar and brush mulching and mesquite grubbing vastly differs from the work Hegener once did, but it is instrumental to the role she plays as a business owner. She has a medical background, having previously worked with a pathologist in a children's clinic. It was this experience in the medical field which pulled her into the human resources and management side of their business. She juggles the bookkeeping, timekeeping, and bill paying along with ensuring the work environment is a good one for their 22 staff members, understanding the work they provide assists staff in financially supporting their families. As she joked about never really arriving at retirement, she also notes the fun side of this venture. "We have really enjoyed it, it is really rewarding," she says knowing that she and the business play a part to help families meet their needs while also doing something to help the environment. She adds that the work itself provides instant gratification in that you see immediate results. And the secret to their proven success in running not just one, but two successful businesses as a husband-wife team, �grow smartly,� she says. She mentions trying not to grow too fast, watching the market, having a strong brand, and most importantly, downhome professionalism. Having a good reputation goes a long way, particularly since a lot of their business is gained by word of mouth. Hegener has a daughter and a son who are also a part of the business and she is happy to have all her grandchildren within a few hours drive.
Ginny Thompson State Farm Insurance, Boerne An introduction — that’s all it took for Ginny Thompson to realize she loved the insurance field and wanted to be a part of it. She fondly describes how her love for it came about so naturally and credits her first calling in education for influencing her decision to work in the field. Potential clients who have stepped into her office comment on her degrees, and when they learn of her post-graduate work in psychology admit they never really had a chance from the moment they walked in. Thompson, who hails from a family of educators, saw the educational side of insurance as an opportunity to better equip people about insurance. She sees it as a necessary purchase, but people need to be educated about it for their needs. Meeting those needs is a natural thing for her saying, “It was just my calling.” That memorable introduction took place in the mid-70s while working alongside State Farm agents, and during a time when the field was a maledominated industry. It took nine years of applications to get the position she was after. In 1985, she was offered the opportunity to become what she calls a “scratch agent,” to open up an office as an independent contractor and build a client base in Boerne. At the time she admitted asking, “Where is Boerne?” and encountered challenges when starting out, such as opening an office in a small community of 2,400 while also knowing another State Farm agent already worked in the area for the past 10 years. She knew she could do it because of her past experience and with State Farm’s support and backing. Tenacity paid off for her as she has been operating her business for over 30 years, where today she and her team of seven provide insurance needs in auto, life, home, financial services, health, and banking and securities to a rapidly growing community. As a result of sustaining a long-standing career as a business owner, highlighted by many industry and agency awards year after year, Thompson struggles to find what has been the most rewarding. She revels in the privilege to have worked with some of her staff for 27 years and seeing their families grow; knowing her business has provided herself, her team, and their families a means of support; being rewarded by the community she serves through organizational leadership roles; creating friendships with clients; and the main one she goes back to — educating. People walk out of her office knowing they’re protected. MARCH/APRIL 2019
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HILL COUNTRY HAPPENINGS
Boerne and Comfort Just a few miles out I-10 are two quaint little towns with adorable shops, great restaurants and lots of events that are fun for everyone. March 6 & 7 CARSON AND BARNES CIRCuS Kendall County Fair Grounds 1307 River Road, Boerne March 9 SECOND SATuRDAY ART BEAT 100 N. Main Street, Boerne March 9 & 10 BOERNE MARKET DAYS 100 N. Main Street, Boerne March 30 SPRING FESTIVAL Herff Farm at The Cibolo Nature Center 140 City Park Road, Boerne April 6 BOERNE BIERFEST 102 City Park Road, Boerne
April 13 & 14 23RD ANNuAL PARADE OF ARTISTS 110 Rosewood Avenue, Boerne April 13 ANNuAL EASTER EGG HuNT Boerne City Lake Park 1 City Lake Road, Boerne April 21 CuRREY CREEK’S EASTER ON THE SquARE Boerne Main Plaza 100 N. Main Street, Boerne April 27 & 28 TEXAS PRESENTATIONS SPRING ANTIquE SHOW Comfort Park 403 Highway 27, Comfort MARCH/APRIL 2019
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HILL COUNTRY EATS
TOP 20 RESTAURANTS YOU WILL LOVE BOERNE • COMFORT • LEON SPRINGS
Take a road trip and check out some of Texas’ best restaurants — just a short drive from the city. THE CREEK RESTAuRANT Seafood-centric American cuisine in a rustic, romantic setting with a deck overlooking a creek. 119 Staffel St, Boerne, TX 78006 thecreekrestaurant.com
VALERIA RISTORANTE ITALIANO Seasonal and organic new American cuisine and wines are presented with flair in a cozy, upbeat setting. 109 Waterview Parkway #105, Boerne, TX 78006 chefkeithkuhn.com
FRITZE’S BBq & CATERING A local, family-owned and operated restaurant with genuine Texas barbecue. 926 N Main St, Boerne, TX 78006 702 7th St, Comfort, TX 78013 fritzesbbq.com
LITTLE GRETEL RESTAuRANT Schnitzel and strudel headline this sunny German eatery in a homey space with a bar and biergarten. 518 River Rd, Boerne, TX 78006 littlegretel.com
CYPRESS GRILLE New American eatery offering an inventive, seasonal menu and extensive wine list in stylish surroundings. 170 S Main St, Boerne, TX 78006 cypressgrilleboerne.com
DOG AND PONY GRILL Casual sports bar and grill featuring American pub grub, live music, a roomy deck and a kids' play area. 1481 S Main St, Boerne, TX 78006 dogandponygrill.com
MI CASA TAMALES Boisterous Mexican bar and grill known for homemade tamales, plus regular live music performances. 25930 Frontage Rd, Boerne, TX 78006 tamalesmicasa.com
BEAR MOON BAKERY AND CAFé Quaint breakfast and lunch in a bright, homey space serving comfort food and baked goods. 401 S Main St, Boerne, TX 78006 bearmoonbakery.com
THE DIENGER TRADING CO Originally constructed in 1884, the Dienger building is now home to a café, bookstore and event space. 210 N Main St, Boerne, TX 78006 thediengertradingco.com 96 SAWOMAN.COM
BuMDOODLERS A family tradition still making all of their breads, pies, cheesecakes, soups and dressings from scratch with Gerri’s original recipes. “The best made-from-scratch pies money can buy.” 929 N Main St, Boerne, TX 78006 bumdoodlers.com
COMFORT PIZZA Old-world, wood-fired pizzeria with a unique beer and wine list, gelato, coffee, retro bicycle rentals and alfresco dining under umbrellas cooled with misters. 802 High St, Comfort, TX 78013
814 A TEXAS BISTRO Bistro cuisine with a Texas flare… Relax, enjoy and experience some foods you’ve never had before! 713 High St, Comfort, TX 78013 814texasbistro.com
LANI’S CHEESECAKES & COFFEE HOuSE Lani's Gourmet Cheesecakes are custom-order, madefrom-scratch, succulent cheesecakes. You will taste the fresh ingredients in every bite. 510 TX-27, Comfort, TX 78013 lanischeesecakes.com
HIGH’S CAFé & STORE Storied, counter-serve coffee/gift shop with gourmet sandwiches and baked goods, plus outdoor seating. 726 High St, Comfort, TX 78013 highscafeandstore.com
THE GRILL AT LEON SPRINGS European-inspired destination serving eclectic fare and fine wines in a rustic locale with live music. 24116 I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257 leonspringsgrill.com
FRALO’S Relaxed spot with unique hand-tossed pizza, beer, wine, live music and outdoor dining under oak trees. 23651 West I- 10,San Antonio, TX 78257 fralos.com
LEON SPRINGS BBq – THE ORIGINAL RuDY’S Brisket, ribs and sides served up cafeteria-style in a no-frills setting with indoor picnic tables. 24152 I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257 rudysbbq.com
SCuZZI’S ITALIAN RESTAuRANT Family-friendly eatery serving classic fare, wine and cocktails in a window-filled space with a patio. 24165 I-10 W #433, San Antonio, TX 78257 scuzzisitalianrestaurant.com
THE POINT PARK AND EATS A rotating roster of local food trucks gathered in a tree-shaded park with seating and a bar. 24188 Boerne Stage Rd, San Antonio, TX 78255 parkatthepoint.com
LONGHORN CAFé Local counter-serve chain dishing up burgers and American comfort food in a casual, rustic space. 23775 I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257 thelonghorncafe.com MARCH/APRIL 2019
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STEM RESEARCH
The Digital Future is Girl Women in the United States have made great strides into the work force, yet continue to be underrepresented in the technology field. At Girl Scouts, we are developing digital leaders. Support for Girl Scouts is crucial because in a few years, these girls will be women trying to make their mark in a field highly dominated my men. Their tech talent and knowledge won’t be enough, they will have to be able to speak up, be confident and show their innovating skills that Girl Scouts helped develop. “In Girl Scouts, our daughters become leaders. They get exposed and encouraged to explore technology and gain skills for careers that haven’t been created yet,” – Kathryn Hoelscher, mom, Girl Scout Troop 317. Girl Scouts introduces girls to technology through simple and fun activities like coding, robotics and programming. “It’s not like before, when women were expected to be mothers and teachers,” Hoelscher said.
You might be asking yourself, how are girls making the world a better place? Seventy-two percent of Girl Scouts surveyed are connecting to social issues and causes in digital platforms. Compared to 62% of non-Girl Scout girls and 59% of boys. Additionally, 55% of Girl Scouts are using technology to help, inform and make a difference in social issues or causes they are passionate about, compared to 41% of non-Girl Scout girls and 38% of boys.
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In Girl Scouts, girls can become whatever they dream of. Girls can build a robot or an application that saves lives. Girl Scouts are paving the way, they are confident in their tech skills and using technology to discover new talents and interests. A recent study conducted by the national Girl Scout Research Institute, Decoding the Digital Girl: Defining and Supporting Girl’s Digital Leadership, surveyed girls (including Girl Scouts) and boys ages 5-17 to better understand the digital experiences of girls and their use of technology. The research shows that girls are making the world a better place by getting empowered in the digital space. Daily, Girl Scouts are taking action and getting involved on issues that affect communities. Allison Hertz, a Girl Scout member for 11 years, worked with East Central and La Vernia independent school districts to launch a website that provides students with techniques on how to respond to bullying and ask for help. Allison’s timely response to the current bullying climate and integration of technology to reach generation Z students earned her the Girl Scout Gold Award. The Gold Award is the most prestigious award in the world for girls. It recognizes girls in grades 9-12 who demonstrate extraordinary leadership through remarkable projects that have sustainable impact in the community and beyond.
Gold Award Girl Scout Helen Hunter is another example of how Girl Scouts are making the world a better place by using technology. She hosted a 5K run and 1-mile fun run for the Alamo Heights area and created the website, Wild for Our Worth. The website focuses on healthy eating, exercise and self-esteem. Through their projects and activities, Girl Scouts are tackling issues important to them and inspiring others to learn more and join the cause. Sixty-three percent of Girl Scouts are connecting others such as friends and family to social issues or causes, compared to 37% of non-Girl Scouts and 44% of boys. Girl Scouts stand out and are more likely than non-Girl Scouts to be digital leaders and be interested in tech as a future career. Leadership in the digital space is more than technological expertise and knowledge. Digital leadership is far-reaching, is about taking that knowledge and creating something to improve lives and the world just like Gold Award Girl Scouts Allison and Helen.
Supporting Girl’s Digital Leadership Technology is everywhere, and although boys are more likely than girls to believe they are the digital/tech experts in their families, girls are embracing technology and engaging in educational activities online.
Did you know? Gold Award Girl Scouts
have a competitive edge in the college admissions process and are eligible for scholarships.
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A SAN ANTONIO WOMAN SPECIAL SECTION
PLAYING GAMES FOR LEARNING PURPOSES
55% GIRLS
41% BOYS
READING BOOKS AND ARTICLES
40% GIRLS
28% BOYS
Girl Scouts exposes girls to different tech pathways, programming and women professionals to provide an accurate representation of the current tech environment. As a result, 64% of Girl Scouts are more likely to be digital leaders versus 43% of non-Girl Scout girls. They are also more likely than non–Girl Scout girls to be interested in specific tech skills, such as app development, web design, robotics, programming, coding, cybersecurity and engineering.
GIRLS’ TECH CAREER INTEREST
50% 44% 55% 38% AGES 5-7
AGES 8-10
AGES 11-13
AGES 14-17
The research indicates that girls show the most interest in tech careers in middle school (see chart). It is important that parents and caregivers look for ways to maintain a girl’s interest in tech early in high school. Girl Scouts can help you. They provide girls of all ages (grades K-12) with multiple opportunities and support to keep them engaged in tech.
TECH CAREER INTEREST
Population = 11 to 17-year-olds Girl Scout Research Institute. (2019). Decoding the Digital Girl: Defining and Supporting Girl’s Digital Leadership.
How Can I Support a Girl’s Digital Leadership? 1. Have a positive outlook on technology 2. Talk to girls about technology and news
66% of girls who are digital leaders have parents and caregivers who talk with them about the positive aspects of technology.
3. Be aware of your daughter’s tech use 4. Ask questions about their online activity
53% of girls who are digital leaders share details about their online activity with their parents/caregivers vs. 36% of other girls.
5. Teach her to regulate her own screen time 6. Provide her with access to technology such as smart devices Girls with limited tech access to devices other than a smart phone, such as tablets, laptops or desktops at home are two times more likely to be missing out on educational activities online compared to girls who have greater exposure.
7. Treat girls and boys as equally capable when it comes to technology. Parents and caregivers should make sure rules for tech are the same for daughters and sons. Gender-based attitudes about tech skills, abilities and digital potential can compromise girls’ growth and exploration in the digital space. A SAN ANTONIO WOMAN SPECIAL SECTION
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Special thanks to our members of Juliette’s Circle, who show their heartfelt support through their individual gifts to Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas. By making an investment in girls, members of Juliette’s Circle demonstrate passion for our mission to build girls of courage, confidence and character, who make the world a better place. We know that when girls succeed, so does society.
We invite you to become a member of Juliette’s Circle because without you, our circle is not complete. To join, call 210-349-2404 ext. 223 or email development@girlscouts-swtx.org
Members of Juliette’s Circle
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Karen Baen
Elizabeth Friedman
Jessica Mobley
Carri Baker
Lisa A. Fullerton
Jennifer Moriarty
Sarah Baray
Monica Gonzalez
Susan L. Pamerleau, Maj. Gen. USAF (Ret)
Nelwyn Simes Belt
Jackie L. Gorman
Anne Parrish
Leah R. Bennett
Suzanne Goudge
Janet Pedrotti
Yonnie Blanchette
Mimi Gourley
Suzanne Peterson
Donna Brady
Roger Graham
Stacie M. Prier
Mary Rose Brown
Carrie Gray
Rebecca Puryear-Jennings
Jelynne LeBlanc Burley
Barbara A.F. Greene
Linda A. Ramon
Laura E. Burt
Christine Grogan
Cathy Ritter
Ella Carrasco
Sondra L. Grohman
Hon. Sylvia S. Romo
Haley C. Carter
Teri M. Grubb
Maj. Gen. Angie Salinas, USMC (Ret)
Cece Cheever
Beth Hair
Sandra Schlortt
Jean Cheever
Harriet Marmon Helmle
Sharon Jones Schweitzer
Joan Cheever
Mary Henrich
Andrea Seal
Nancy & Charlie Cheever
Jody Shaw Hernandez
Marsha M. Shields
Regina Cheever
Priscilla Hill-Ardoin
Blythe Simonson
Deena Clausen
Mary Hime
Barney Smith
Kelly Colotla
Janet Holliday
Cariño Cortez
Susan Hough
Cecilia M. Smith
Stephanie Finleon Cortez
Janet Irwine
Jocelyn L. Straus
Chris B. Crane
Gwendolyn Jaramillo
Rita Sutton
Luis de la Garza
Dr. Arcelia M. Johnson-Fannin
Marlene M. Teal
Yolanda Delgado
Katie McKinney Jones
Diane M. Theiss
Patricia Diaz Dennis
Hon. Yvonne Katz, Ed. D.
Cheryl Thorpe
Lisa Drozdick
Estella Reyna Kierce
Jill Torbert
Dr. Veronica Muzquiz Edwards
Jan King
Annie Uribe Turner
Peggy Eighmy
Wendy Kowalik
Jay Uribe
Jan McCaleb Elliott
Rosemary Kowalski
Laura J. Vaccaro
Kelly Faglie
Pam Landry
Suzanne Wade
Sandy Finleon
Lori Johnson Leal
Lynn Weirich
Gretcha Flinn
Madelon Yanta Leone
Teri L. Wenglein
Leah D. Flores
Jane H. Macon
Linda Whitacre
(in honor of Wilma Ciabattoni)
Ramon Flores
Christina Markell-Balleza
Dr. Sandi J. Wolff
Lisa D. Fox
Nancy F. May
Jeanie Wyatt
Jeannie Frazier
Charline H. McCombs
Judge Renée Yanta
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List includes current Juliette's Circle members as of February 1, 2019.
Making a world of difference:
Business Patch Partners The future workforce is full of infinite possibilities, but we need more businesses — large and small — to take a vested interest in advancing female leadership today. With a combined contribution of $245,000 to Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas, CPS Energy, H-E-B, Shining Star ENERGY, Texas A&M University-San Antonio, The Tobin Endowment, Valero Energy Foundation and Wells Fargo have taken the lead in supporting innovative patch programs for each company’s area of expertise. CPS Energy Through CPS Energy’s Environmental Awareness initiative, girls learn about the importance of protecting our planet, conserving energy and how to be good environmental stewards. *Did you know: For girls ages 11-12, 73% reported improving the world around them as their favorite activity (e.g. activities related to the environment or helping others.) H-E-B Girl Scouts recognizes that physical health, emotional health and self-esteem are connected. H-E-B’s Health and Wellness initiative promotes a balanced view of body image and develops skills to keep girls’ bodies healthy. *Did you know: Over the past 25 years, the percentage of overweight girls has more than doubled. Thirty-one percent of girls admit to starving themselves or refusing to eat as a strategy to lose weight. Shining Star ENERGY Fifty percent of women in business are Girl Scout alums, so it’s clear our approach is working. Through Shining Star ENERGY's I Am. I Can. Watch Me. Entrepreneurship initiative, Girl Scouts learn about the fundamental dynamics of business, the scope of planning and how to prepare for an enterprising future. *Did you know: 30% of all businesses in the U.S. are owned by women and 80% percent of female entrepreneurs were once Girl Scouts. Texas A&M University-San Antonio The Texas A&M University-San Antonio Embracing Patriotism initiative provides girls with deeper understanding of patriotism or national pride, which is the ideology of love and devotion to a homeland, and a sense of alliance with other citizens who share the same values. *Did you know: Gold Award Girl Scouts enter the military one rank higher than their peers and 58% of women in the 116th U.S. Congress are Girl Scout alums. The Tobin Endowment Through the encouragement of artistic expression, girls improve their self-esteem, feel motivated to explore new interests and may even develop new talents in music, dance or visual arts. *Did you know: Girls who study art are four times more likely to be recognized for academic achievement and three times more likely to be awarded for school attendance. Valero Energy Foundation Whether they’re building robots, learning the mechanics of a car’s engine or creating a chemical reaction, girls are unlocking unexpected talents through Valero Energy Foundation’s STEM initiative. *Did you know: When today’s girls graduate from college, America will need 3 million more scientists and engineers. However, girls tend to leave science to boys as early as the 5th grade. Wells Fargo Wells Fargo’s Financial Literacy initiative provides girls the resources and knowledge to set fiscal goals and become financially accountable when earning and managing money. *Did you know: Women-owned funds significantly outperform funds in general, even during tough economic times. Yet women managed only 3% of hedge funds and 10% of mutual funds in the year leading to the 2008 recession.
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Who We Are Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) is dedicated solely to girls in grades K-12. For 107 years we have enabled girls to build character and skills for success. • Founded in 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low • More than 2.5 million members throughout the United States* • GSUSA is a member of the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS) • WAGGGS is a family of 10 million girls and adults in 150 countries * Including U.S. territories, and in more than 90 countries through USA Girl Scouts Overseas.
TO VISIT OR CONTACT GSSWT Sally Cheever Girl Scout Leadership Center 811 N Coker Loop | San Antonio, TX 78216 Phone 210-349-2404 | 1-800-580-7247 Fax 210-349-2666 West Side Girl Scout Leadership Center 5622 W. César E. Chávez Blvd. | San Antonio, TX 78237 Phone 210-349-2404
How to Become a Girl Scout
Frequently asked Questions
• • •
Q: What happens after a girl becomes a Girl Scout? A: When a girl joins the organization, she becomes a Girl Scout member. All members may choose any one, all or some of the flexible pathways to participate in during a single year.
Be a girl in grades K-12 Accept the Girl Scout Promise and Law Pay national membership dues of $25 (financial assistance is available)
Call 210-349-2404/1-800-580-7247 or visit girlscouts-swtx.org/join to learn about Girl Scouts in your neighborhood! There are many ways to get involved with Girl Scouts: Camp. By day or overnight, she can explore nature on two wheels, by the light of the moon or through the lens of a camera. Events. Most girls have more than one passion — maybe storytelling and acting and dancing. Choose events centered on your daughter’s favorites. Series. Everything’s more fun when you’re sharing it with others who love the same things. Our series let girls explore interests together in a way that fits their schedules. Travel. Want your daughter to go places? Girl Scouts do. When they see and experience new things, it’s always an adventure they’ll never forget. Troop. Meeting regularly, girls can share amazing experiences, learn to make a difference in their community and have lots of fun! Girl Scout Grade Levels GSUSA program at all levels emphasizes development of personal values, appreciation of others, decision-making, leadership and service. Program is adapted for each grade level and for the needs and interests of individual girls. • • • • • •
Girl Scout Daisy—grades K-1 Girl Scout Brownie—grades 2-3 Girl Scout Junior—grades 4-5 Girl Scout Cadette—grades 6-8 Girl Scout Senior—grades 9-10 Girl Scout Ambassador—grades 11-12
Girl Scouts offers more choices and more reasons than ever to join. Get started today!
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Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas (GSSWT) is chartered by Girl Scouts of the USA to provide program in 21 counties. We are headquartered at the Sally Cheever Girl Scout Leadership Center in north central San Antonio.
A SAN ANTONIO WOMAN SPECIAL SECTION
Q: How can I support my daughter’s Girl Scout journey? A: Parents/caregivers should be familiar with the flexible pathways your daughter can experience. Help her identify her interests and encourage her to participate in various activities. More information may be found at girlscouts-swtx.org. Q: Where do funds come from to pay for books, pins and awards? A: Through participation in product programs, such as the annual Girl Scout Cookie Program, which provides troops or individual girls with proceeds to help pay for books, earned awards or uniform pieces. Proceeds may also be used to pay for attendance at camp or to travel, as well as various activities offered by the council. Parents/caregivers of girls will often pay some of the costs. If a troop is newly formed, a troop leader may request a small amount from the caregivers to begin the program year. All these specific troop details should be discussed at the first parent’s meeting. Limited financial assistance for books, membership pins and uniform components is available. Q: Are uniforms required in Girl Scouting? A: Uniforms are not required but are encouraged for visibility and Girl Scout spirit. A girl is always welcome to participate in Girl Scouting whether or not she chooses to have a uniform. The Girl Scout Membership Pin can be worn with or without the uniform. Girls are encouraged to purchase a sash or vest on which to display earned awards and other official insignia. Financial assistance is available. Q: Is financial assistance available? A: Yes. GSSWT believes no girl should ever be denied the opportunity to participate in Girl Scouts because of financial need. Funds are available to assist girls with council activities, membership dues, books, etc. Q: Who can be a Girl Scout volunteer? A: Anyone over the age of 18 and willing to accept the Girl Scout Promise and Law is welcome. Adults go through the following steps when applying to become Girl Scout volunteers: application with background check, appointment for one year, placement and required training. GSSWT offers adult learning opportunities online and in a live class format to provide volunteers with a solid foundation for guiding the leadership development of girls. Q: Who do I contact for information or help? A: Much information may be found online at girlscouts-swtx.org or call 210-349-2404/1-800-580-7247.
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MARCH/APRIL 2019
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ARTBEAT
Kathy Sosa “Blooms” In South Texas Blended Culture By Jasmina Wellinghoff
Photograpy by Janet Rogers
hen Kathy Sosa was still a budding artist, she
In addition to faces, the show will
remembers being introduced to some people as
also include her other signature motif
simply Kathy Sosa. One of the women in the
— the Tree of Life. This is her two-
group promptly asked: “Kathy Sosa, the artist?” That little
dimensional interpretation of the
phrase made her day. The longtime marketing and advertising
traditional Mexican ceramic Trees of
professional who first picked up a paint brush at 48, was
Life, which originally depicted the story
thrilled to be so matter-of-factly recognized as an artist.
of creation but are now crafted to tell
Since then, Sosa has built a successful second career as a
other stories as well. In fact, Sosa was
painter and printmaker whose colorful style draws inspiration
working on one particular Tree of Life
from the people she meets and the Mestizo culture of South
painting representing a pivotal
Texas borderlands.
moment in the life of the woman who
When we met to talk about her newest pursuits back in
commissioned it. This lady had been
late January, she was working hard to complete a body of
bitten by a rattlesnake one day while
work for her March exhibit at AnArte Gallery, titled simply
admiring the ocean from a grassy
“52.” The idea was to create 52 new paintings in 2018,
dune and almost died. Once
completing one every week and posting each image on
recovered, she changed her entire life.
Facebook as she went along. A nasty bout with pneumonia,
Sosa was planning to incorporate
however, disrupted those plans for several weeks, but she
symbols that relate to this existential
nevertheless finished the project on Dec. 31 and continued
change — a snake, dunes, etc. —
producing more images to give gallerist Ana Montoya
in the painting.
additional choices. Sosa is known for painting women, and this series is no exception. She brought a number of her new pieces to show us. Each 8x10 work was a female face
BLOOMED WHERE PLANTED Sosa and her husband Lionel Sosa, a retired marketing
rendered in bold strokes and colors, ready to be fitted in a
consultant and a very talented artist himself, work out of a
large “gold” frame. Though inspired by real women, she
couple of studios, including their home studios in downtown
insists they are not portraits. “There are several sources for my faces,” she explained.
San Antonio. Their property is fronted by an old house which they have transformed into an eye-popping, folk-artsy
“Some have been inspired by people who commissioned
gallery/living space where your eye wants to roam around
the paintings; some by women I never met before they
for a long while, trying to take it all in. Lionel’s true-to-life
asked Ana to be included in this series; and some I met on
portraits mingle with Kathy’s more interpretative creations,
the street and asked to photograph them because they
hand-crafted sofa cushions, bright upholstery and dozens of
looked interesting. I take a lot of pictures of people and a lot
interesting objects.
of pictures of paintings. Not one of my faces is completely
Though a nationally prominent consultant who worked on
imaginary, but I don’t want them to be literally the faces of
a couple of presidential campaigns, Lionel has always
the real women. I go at it with colors and a feeling and see
pursued his art career as well, painting regularly with his
what happens. I tell people, ‘Don’t be mad if it doesn’t look
brother and children every Sunday. Kathy felt kind of
like you.’”
excluded. So, one day, after Lionel had abandoned a
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painting of their dog, she just picked up the brush and
Kathy has engaged one granddaughter, Liliana Sosa, to
finished it off. What followed was her first series of dog-
travel with her down to the U.S. Mexico border to spread
related pieces that were "visual puns" on various dog
the word about Kathy’s newest project: “Keep Calm Y
sayings, such as “top dog” and “dog eat dog.” Before long,
Dream On,” a public-art-meets-public-service undertaking
Lionel insisted that she accompany him to Philadelphia to
that “aims to express pride and build awareness of our
study with famed portraitist Nelson Shanks, which she did
blended culture.” The artist plans to produce signs, stickers,
despite misgivings about her own qualifications. Eventually,
screen prints and other items that will spread that message.
she developed her own subject matter and style embodied
“That’s my cause, to send a message that there is no
in multimedia “portraits” of women that combined painting
reason to fear cultural change,” said Kathy. “We here live in
with textiles and wallpaper and quickly attracted a great deal
a blended culture already.”
of attention. Since 2006, Sosa has had many solo and
She has certainly
group exhibitions, including the well-received Huipiles: A
embraced that culture and
Celebration, at the Smithsonian in Washington D.C. through
made it her own. Describing
a collaboration with the capital’s Mexican Cultural Institute. Between them, the Sosas have eight children from
herself as “a flower that blooms where planted,” she
previous marriages, 25 grandchildren, “and almost as many
shares a bit of advice that
great-grandchildren,” many of whom are artistically inclined.
a lot of people could use.
“You may not have total control of your circumstances, but you have the power to do what you want to do from whatever platform you have.” MARCH/APRIL 2019
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ROLE MODEL
Sara Neel Shaping Her Own Path By Dawn Robinette Photography by David Teran
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hether it’s landscaping, adding muscle to help a
She credits her drive and attitude to her grandmother. “She
nonprofit change people’s lives, or sticking it out
had a totally different, uncharted path. She left her family,
as a young working mother determined to get her
went and got a degree, went to Europe — all when this was
college degree, Sara Neel, President/CEO of One Advocate
not something that women did. Her example and words to
Group, agrees with Nike: Just do it. “Whatever it is, just do it.
me over so many coffee table conversations were, ‘You can
I think oftentimes we say we want something, then we’re not
do anything if you want it bad enough.’ That was her advice.
willing to put in that hard effort,” she explains.
If you want to do it, you go do it. If you set your mind to
As CEO/President of One Advocate Group, Neel’s current efforts are focused on serving the wealth management firm’s
something, you can do it.” She advises other women to listen to their inner voice.
clients. Founded as an insurance practice in the 1990s, it evolved to become a wealth management firm that helps its clients make conscious decisions for their future. Neel joined the One Advocate Group as an executive assistant in 2012, growing as the firm grew to become Managing Director, then President, before being named CEO/President in late 2017.
“Don’t let yourself talk you out of your original goal. Just execute on that.”
But that wasn’t in her plan, because she didn’t have one. “I didn’t choose this. I didn’t come with the position that
When she was home with two young children — now 13
this was going to be my career path. That wasn’t my goal.
and 11— working on her undergraduate degree, that idea
My goal was to come in, help someone out and make a
kept her going. “It was really, really hard with two kids and a
difference. The rest fell into place.” That may sound like an understatement, but to someone who believes in hard work and sees value in starting at the bottom and earning your stripes the hard way, it’s a natural fit.
husband doing shift work and I was stuck at home. I had to keep asking myself, ‘Why am I doing this?’ But I was doing it because I had an end goal of wanting X — my degree. “I remember thinking, ‘I’m so done with this. What am I
“Why wouldn’t we want to start at the bottom? There are so
doing? I can’t do this anymore.’ But you have to pick yourself
many dense life lessons in that that can help us be a better
up. This is just temporary. Get back on the computer. Fix the
CEO or leader or mother or whatever, so I embrace that.” She landed at One Advocacy Group after jobs in banking and lending, as well as a stint as a contractor supporting U.S. forces in Baghdad during the height of Operation Iraqi
babies. Fix the dinner from burning. And finish it. Listen to your inner voice. Execute. Stay positive. I had to tell myself, ‘I can do this, I can do this, I can do this.’ so many times.” That laser focus on her end goal kept her going through
Freedom, working on the border between what was then
her MBA as well, and now she’s pursuing her Doctorate in
known as the Green Zone and the Red Zone. “I really felt like
Business Administration. Juggling school, her family and her
we were contributing to a bigger mission.” Her time in Iraq solidified her desire to give back, which
role at One Advocate Group has challenged that, but she stays focused. “I’ve gotten really good at saying no, I can’t do
she now does as president of the Grand Purpose Foundation,
that. It’s out of my limits. Everything needs to be in harmony.
a nonprofit created by One Advocate Group. Committed to
If I am too heavily weighted in the work, I’m not going to be
serving women and children directly experiencing physical
good at home. If I’m saying yes to too many things or if I’m
and emotional abuse, the foundation does direct work in
out of whack in an area, it’s going to reflect in all of that.”
addition to making a financial contribution. That means that the team at One Advocate Group puts in sweat equity to help
To help maintain that harmony, she sets time aside for “white space,” a time for quiet focus and reflection. For Neel,
a cause, like renovating rooms at San Antonio’s Magdalena
that means getting up at 4 a.m. “I’ll go for a walk or do some
House. “We could just write a check, or hire someone to do
physical activity for 30 minutes, set my mind, come back,
the work, but what does that do? For them to come in and out
have coffee and have quiet time—‘white space time’. Just
of that home and see us, they know our heart was in it and it
coffee and a candle.
meant that much more to them. That’s truly connecting.” Neel’s drive to help others fuels her. “Progress in others and seeing people evolve with me working with them is where I feel on fire. Seeing others…seeing where maybe
“Even on the weekends. I can’t get out of that. It’s a staple for me now. If I go on vacation, same thing. It’s part of my balance.” That unwavering commitment ties back to her “just do it”
something I’ve helped them with or was able to give them
philosophy—and holding herself accountable. “There’s really
guidance on propelled them forward in a good way. It
no excuse as the end of the day. Mean what you say, say
motivates me to be better.”
what you mean and follow it up with actions.” MARCH/APRIL 2019
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GUY TO KNOW
Eric Bell Takes Flight with Blue Duck Scooters By Gabrielle Hernandez Photography by Janet Rogers
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ransportation is now more available than ever
cities and elected officials. It is the right thing to do, and
thanks to a plethora of rideshare options, but
more important, it is the right way to do business.
have any of them allowed you to take flight? Electric scooters are the latest innovation in accessible transportation, and Blue Duck Scooters is the local brand allowing you to “fly wild.” Eric Bell, CEO and President of Blue Duck Scooters, is committed to helping his hometown succeed in the fight for meaningful transportation reform. His dedication and
We are a hardware company, a software company, a logistics company, a real estate company, a data company, a transportation company, an insurance company. All of these things are incredibly challenging individually. When you put them together, it is exponentially challenging. But we have had the ultimate luxury to be able to hire the brightest people to come to help us solve these big, tough
expertise, combined with a talented team, is helping transform
problems. Over the course of the past few months, we have
urban living in not only San Antonio but cities worldwide.
seen the company come together as a unit to do some
What do you think caused this boom in the scooter industry?
getting better at it day by day.
things that are truly remarkable. Like all things, we are all
I think people are tired of not having real, green solutions for getting around urban spaces. I don’t know that the scooter is the solution, I just know that it is the solution we
What are your goals, not only as a business owner but as an individual? I have some things I check off. If you can do something
are using today. There are a lot of people who are using this
that is really fun, you can do it with people you love, and you
as a form of transportation when they ordinarily would have
can make an impact - you’re doing the right thing. If it
been in their car. The experience of riding a scooter is a lot
doesn’t check those boxes, I don’t care what it is, I have no
of fun if you do it responsibly and safely. It seems to take
interest in doing it. It has nothing to do with having a larger
people back to their childhood. I had a razor scooter as a
house or more cars. Those are not the point. If we are lucky
kid. I associate these scooters with a different place and
in the end, we get a paragraph. I would hope that when that
time. When I am in my car I don’t have that experience.
paragraph gets written, it checks those boxes.
When you get on an electric scooter, it is transformative.
What made you decide to get into this business? I grew up in a family that was very politically involved.
What is the best part of being able to build this business in this community? To have been doing this here is a real privilege. Businesses like this don’t usually come out of an ecosystem in South
One thing that was bouncing around my living room when
Texas. We have been unwaveringly committed to building the
I was a child was thoughts on addressing real policy. One of
bulk of our operations right here in the middle of San Antonio.
the things that policymakers have been unable to address in the South is meaningful transportation reform. I became
The best part is waking up and knowing that there is real meaning behind what you are doing. We are in the middle
aware that it was not just possible, but plausible and
of a movement that is changing the world. It is altering the
realistic. That sense of being able to be involved in a
fabric of urban communities and transportation policy in
movement that could help alleviate problems including
every city. Knowing that we are establishing a legacy as a
parking congestion, pollution, and traffic, was really powerful
company and as a community is what gets most of us out
and has remained steadfast.
of the bed in the morning.
What is the most challenging part of this business?
Do you have a favorite place to ride a Blue Duck Scooter?
We are a startup, we are inventing an industry that didn’t exist a year ago. The problems we have to solve are huge
It isn’t so much where you are going, but it is arriving. When I have ridden a scooter to meet someone, I arrive
not only for us but at an industry level and a community
feeling much better about it than if I had taken my car. It is
level. It is incumbent upon us as corporate citizens to be
that sense of enjoyment about what is ordinarily mundane.
good partners. We want to be proactive and work with the
It’s a more enjoyable transportation experience.
MARCH/APRIL 2019
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ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT CALENDAR First Thursday THE PEARL’S FIRST THuRSDAY NIGHT MARKET
honey, gourmet coffee, lemonade and many more exciting products.
The Historic Pearl
March 2 BuD LIGHT MARDI GRAS RIVER PARADE
4 – 8 pm Local vendors from the Pearl Farmers Market will now join Pearl every first Thursday evening of each month! Live music, dining and shopping will also take over Pearl, offering a chance to eat, sip and explore goods while shopping local. AtPearl.com
Every Saturday MEDITATION IN THE JAPANESE GALLERY San Antonio Museum of Art
10:15 – 11 am Serene, guided meditation in the Japanese art gallery. Cushions and stools provided. Free with admission. SAMuseum.org
225 E Basse Rd
9 am – 1 pm Free and open to the public. Alamo Heights Farmers Market features over 25 vendors with farm fresh selections including fresh produce, grass fed/grass finished beef, lamb, goat and wild hog meats, chicken, eggs, kombucha, pecans,
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Culinaria.org
The River Walk
This floating Mardi Gras celebration features river floats decorated to the nines, bringing the River Walk to life. Join the party with beads, masks, and your best costumes. walk.com
March 2-5 JAZZ ON THE RIVER The River Walk
Brass bands, trios, and jazz ensembles float down the river to add some be-bop to your evening. Take in the sounds of a jazz serenade anywhere along the 2 ½ mile route.
March 19 THE BEACH BOYS The Majestic Theatre
Good Vibrations will fill the Majestic during a special night with The Beach Boys. The iconic band brings unfading youth through their spirit and performance featuring all their classic hits.
March 8-10 THE SOuND OF MuSIC
MajesticEmpire.com
The Majestic Theatre
March 19 CAROL BuRNETT LIVE
The beloved musical is coming to the Alamo City with a brand new production. Maria and the Von Trapp family will delight with your favorite songs in this spirited and romantic show. MajesticEmpire.com
March 16 CuLINARIA 5K WINE AND BEER RuN The Shops of La Cantera
Trek through the hill country scenery and be greeted at the finish line
March 22 AID THE SILENT’S ANNuAL GALA Witte Museum
Aid the Silent helps children and teens that are hard-of-hearing receive access to opportunities to assist in their growth socially, educationally and spiritually. Help make a difference in these young lives at their second annual gala.
Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
Comedy queen Carol Burnett returns to her hometown and wants you to join in the fun! Engage with the icon in her unique evening of laughter where she will take questions from the audience and reflect on her life. TobinCenter.org
easy-listening tunes on tour. His powerful vocals and moving lyrics are sure to capture your heart. Ticketmaster.com
March 29 SAN ANTONIO CONSERVATION SOCIETY’S 2019 PuBLICATION AWARDS Sheraton Gunter Hotel
March 26 TuESDAY MuSICAL CLuB’S ARTIST SERIES
Honoring authors of books exploring art, architecture, prehistoric murals, and the human struggle to shape the environment. The public can meet winning authors at this luncheon, awards and book signing.
Laurel Heights United Methodist Church
Saconservation.org/ publication-awards/
Acclaimed baritone Troy Cook will be accompanied on piano by popular San Antonian Kristin Roach.
April 1-7 VALERO TEXAS OPEN
AidTheSilent.com
thesanantonioriver-
thesanantonioriverwalk.com
Every Sunday ALAMO HEIGHTS FARMERS MARKET
with a post-race reception. Some of the best restaurants in town will congratulate you with refreshing drinks and tasty dishes.
satmc.org
March 26-31 FIDDLER ON THE ROOF The Majestic Theatre
This Tony-winning masterpiece shares the story of timeless traditions through a talented cast and lavish orchestra. Enjoy the heartwarming tale of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, and faith and family.
TPC San Antonio
Fore! Take the whole family out to enjoy a day at the golf course and watch some of the top-ranked PGA pros navigate the challenging course. ValeroTexasOpen.com
Majestic Empire.com
March 27 MICHAEL BuBLé
April 5-7 POTEET STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
AT&T Center
Poteet
Following the release of his new album, Love, Michael Buble brings his
This annual event is sure to entertain with food, a fair and live entertainment.
MARCH/APRIL 2019
Randy Rogers band takes the stage the final night, closing out the fest with some good ole’ Texas country music. StrawberryFestival.com
April 6-7 STARVING ARTIST ART SHOW La Villita
Explore local artisan talent from around the Texas area from 10am – 6pm. This free, family event will showcase quality handmade art, jewelry and unique specialty items. Proceeds of this event will benefit The Little Church of La Villita. lavillitasanantonio.com
April 12 YO-YO MA Laurie Auditorium
It is sure to be an unforgettable concert event featuring one of the greatest musicians. Don’t miss the only Texas performance for the famed cellist as he performs all six of J.S. Bach’s Suites for solo cello. ArtsSA.org
April 13 EARTH DAY 2019: quALITY AIR, quALITY LIFE The event informs residents of San Antonio on how to protect the resources that are essential to the well-being of our communities. Diversity of booths, educational activities, delicious vegetarian and vegan food, environmental speakers, live
music, outdoor games, giveaways, raffle and fun for the whole family. This is the Official City of San Antonio Earth Day 2019 event and is also an Official Fiesta Event. westsidedevcorp.com
April 17 FRIENDS! THE MuSICAL PARODY The Majestic Theatre
This hilarious new production pays homage to your favorite group of 20-somethings. Join them at Central Perk and fall in love with these characters all over again. MajesticEmpire.com
April 18 FREuD’S LAST SESSION The Public Theater of San Antonio
Started in 1891 with one-parade as a way to honor the memory of the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, Fiesta® has grown into a celebration of San Antonio’s rich and diverse cultures. Fiesta® has evolved into one of the nation’s premier festivals with an economic impact of more than $340 million for the Alamo City. Funds raised by official Fiesta® events provide services to San Antonio citizens throughout the year.
April 6 — Valero Texas Open’s 19th Hole Fiesta TPC.com
April 12-13 — Fiesta Oyster Bake OysterBake.com
Dr. Sigmund Freud is joined by C.S. Lewis for an intriguing discussion. Explore the minds, hearts, and souls of these two intellectual men in this touching story.
April 14 — Champagne & Diamonds Brunch
ThePublicSA.org
April 22 — The Texas Cavaliers River Parade
April 30 THE PIANO GuYS Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
This quartet began as an overnight phenomenon and have grown into a powerhouse group. Their unique compositions impressively overcome the boundaries between style and genre. TobinCenter.org
LoBelloWomensAssociation.com
April 20 — Fiesta Kings Cup SanAntonioPoloClub.com
FiestaSanAntonio.org
April 23-26 — Night in Old San Antonio Niosa.org
April 26 — Battle of Flowers Parade BattleofFlowers.org
Go to FiestaSanAntonio.org for a full calendar of events.
Viva Fiesta!
MARCH/APRIL 2019
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DINING
Bella ON HOUSTON
Exquisite Mediterranean Cuisine
Change is never easy, but for one San Antonio couple, a recent change has allowed for amazing growth and exciting new opportunity. David and Carol Snyder have recently reinvented their beautiful restaurant, Bella on the River, and relocated to Houston Street, right next door to the Majestic Theatre. Bella on Houston still maintains its excellent culinary standards, with their hearty and exquisitely diverse Mediterranean menu. Chef Sean Fletcher still leads an outstanding staff of talented cooks in the kitchen, while David and Carol direct a top-notch
By Meredith Kay
team at the front of the house. Many of the employees at Bella on
Photography by Janet Rogers
this dynamic couple envisioned a quaint, European bistro right on
Houston have been with the restaurant from the beginning when the Riverwalk almost eight years ago. Bella was forced to move last year when a condo project took over the building that housed their previous restaurant. This did not stop them from moving forward with a new dĂŠcor concept while holding true to the flavors that have made Bella a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
Above: Sleek, modern dining room at Bella on Houston. Opposite Page, top to bottom: Spanish Paella, Eggplant Josephine in Hollandaise sauce with a dash of Sauce Diablo, Barramundi with Quinoa Risotto and winter vegetables, Virginia’s Pistachio Cake.
The restaurant has doubled in size, and where the previous Bella had an Old-World charm, the new version of Bella is sleek and modern. The menu changes with the seasons a few times a year, and you will usually find a daily special and wine pairing
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suggestions that are carefully planned by the Bella team. Chef Sean Fletcher is a classically French-trained chef. He is calm and polite, and very soft-spoken. He believes that "It is the flavor and the execution that sets Bella apart, incorporating traditional Mediterranean flavors with a modern flair." Bella on Houston has several signature dishes on the menu, as well as new and creative recipes to keep the menu fresh. One of their most popular appetizers has always been their Eggplant Josephine. It is a deceptively complicated creation with layers of flavor and texture, featuring pan-fried eggplant stacked with sautéed Texas Gulf Shrimp, and enveloped in Hollandaise sauce and mozzarella cheese, with a dash of their delicious Sauce Diablo. It's an explosion of flavors that leaves you trying to decipher what you are tasting with each addicting bite. Another fan favorite is their Spanish Paella. There aren't many restaurants featuring this high maintenance dish, but Bella does an outstanding version with fresh Texas Gulf Shrimp, fresh clams, Prince Edward Island Mussels, Chicken, Spanish Chorizo, roasted vegetables and, of course, Spanish saffron rice. Tender peas add a touch of color to the paella and help to make this dish a destination meal in itself. On the winter menu at the moment, Chef Sean has created a delicious entrée featuring Barramundi served with quinoa risotto and winter vegetables, such as Brussels sprouts, baby carrots, fennel, and beets. The entire plate is served with a parsley oil halo, and the creamy risotto perfectly complements the light and flaky texture of the fish. This dish was also on the menu for Culinaria’s Restaurant Week in January and was one of the memorable dishes of the event. The new interior at Bella on Houston is so warm and inviting that you will want to linger long after the last bite has been savored, so you might as well indulge in one of their outstanding desserts. Their most popular dessert is a recipe that was created by a friend, and it is still named after her. Virginia’s Pistachio Cake is a deliciously sweet ending to a fabulous meal. The cake is incredibly moist without being too sweet, and the pistachio icing topped with more pistachios is definitely one that you will remember for a long time. Downtown San Antonio is buzzing right now, with new construction, new restaurants and a general atmosphere of progress and change. It’s a great time to live in the Alamo City. And for a city that often views itself as being behind the times, all of this change is going to make us a force to be reckoned with. Change is good for San Antonio, and also for the amazing crew behind Bella on Houston, where the old has definitely embraced the new. MARCH/APRIL 2019
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DINING
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SA EATS
SA Eats
We all know women have distinctive tastes when it comes to dining out. So, ladies, this restaurant guide is custom tailored just for you. For an expanded list of San Antonio Food & Dining choices, go to SAEats.com. A Warm Cup of Joe
A Bite of Baked Goodies
Date Night Dining
Taco ‘Bout Tasty
TORO KITCHEN + BAR Taste the best paella in town along with a variety of tapas. After dinner, head to the speakeasy down stairs, Cellar Mixology. $$ 1142 E Commerce St TorokitchenAndBar.com
SHOTGuN HOuSE COFFEE ROASTERS An old sewing factory was transformed into a creative space and is also home to the roastery. They proudly roast and package specialty coffee on-site and offer an array of syrups that are handcrafted in house. Fan favorites — iced horchata latte, salted caramel latte and cold brew. $ 1333 Buena Vista St. ShotgunHouseRoasters.com
DON MARTIN’S COFFEE The old-school vibe of this coffee shop exudes tradition, culture, and family. Enjoy pan dulce while you sip on a hot cup and visit with friends. Experience heart and hospitality at Don Martin's.$ 540 S. Presa St. donMartinsCoffee.com
WHITE ELEPHANT COFFEE COMPANY Popular joint serving houseroasted coffee, plus sweet and savory bites, in a cool, relaxed space. $ 110 W Carolina St WeCoffeeCompany.com 126 SAWOMAN.COM
EL JARRO DE ARTuRO Vibrant eatery offering Mexican favorites and margaritas, plus live music on the patio. $$
NOLA BRuNCH & BEIGNETS Classic New Orleans brunch fare and a variety of beignets served in a relaxed cafe with live jazz. $$
17907 W IH 10 13421 San Pedro Ave ElJarro.com
111 Kings Ct EatAtNola.com
BIRD BAKERY Order your own custom creations to share, or just for yourself. A delightful array of cakes and cookies are on display, decorated to perfection. A selection of sandwiches is also available to accompany your dessert. $$ 5912 Broadway St BirdBakery.com
LA PANADERIA Enjoy bread cultura at this bakery-cafe, where Mexican heritage is shared through the joy of eating. Handmade bread and pan dulce are the crowning glory of this family-owned pastry heaven. $$ 301 E Houston St 8305 Broadway St LaPanaderia.com
CHAMA GAuCHA BRAZILIAN STEAKHOuSE Upscale all-you-can-eat churrascaria with grilled beef, pork, chicken and lamb, plus a vast salad bar. $$$ 18318 Sonterra Pl. ChamaGaucha.com
ERNESTO’S RESTAuRANT For 36 years, Ernesto’s serves up unique Mexican food you won’t find anywhere else in SA. With options that feature both seafood and French flair, this family-run restaurant will not disappoint. PS. Don’t skip the dessert! $$ 2775 Jackson Keller
J. PRIME STEAKHOuSE Traditional American steakhouse combined with innovative recipes creates an unforgettable experience. $$$ 1401 N Loop 1604 W JPrimeSteakhouse.com
FREDERICK’S BISTRO Strip-mall bistro serving a rotating menu of upscale FrenchVietnamese fusion in a cozy space. $$$ 7710 Broadway St #20 14439 NW Military Hwy #100 FredericksSA.com
CHELA’S TACOS MEXICAN RESTAuRANT Chela’s serves simple and delicious tacos. Tastes great and feel good about eating it.$ 5231 Broadway, #117 Chelas-Tacos.com
TITO’S MEXICAN RESTAuRANT This light-filled Mexican spot with breakfast tacos, fajitas, enchiladas and margaritas. $ 955 S Alamo St TitosRestaurant.com
Mid Day Munchies
award-winning gumbo and cornbread from scratch! $ 1816 N New Braunfels Ave
SCuZZI’S ITALIAN GRILL Family-friendly eatery serving classic fare, wine and cocktails in a window-filled space with a patio. $$ 24165 West IH 10 Suite 433 4035 N Loop 1604 W #102 ScuzzisItalianRestaurant.com
EZ’S BRICK OVEN & GRILL Colorful, retro-funky chain offering pizzas, burgers and other American faves. $$ 6498 N New Braunfels Ave 734 W. Bitters Rd EZsRestaurants.com
FLORIO’S Since 1980, this simple, familyowned pizzeria offers NYC-style pies plus subs and salads. $
THE COVE Quirky kid-friendly venue with organic American fare, live music, a laundromat and car wash. $$ 606 W Cypress St TheCove.us/
Unique Treats
7701 Broadway
SALATA Made-to-order salads featuring signature dressings, wraps and soups. $ 4 locations throughout San Antonio Salata.com
BANGKOK 54 THAI CuISINE Traditional eatery with a mix of familiar Thai plates in an artful, comfortable, dining room. $$ 2515 Nacogdoches Rd Bangkok54Texas.com
Feels Like Home
BREW’S LEE TEA Guests can expect to experience a variety of unique teas including milk teas, specialty teas, and hot teas. $ 4009 Broadway St BrewsLeeTea.com
AVOCADO CAFE & JuICE BAR This family owned and operated cafe cooks up light and healthy meals, pastries and specialty drinks that are perfect for all dietary needs and palates. $ 18771 FM 2252 AvocadoCafeSA.com
MA HARPER’S CREOLE KITCHEN This creole kitchen has been in the heart of San Antonio for more than 25 years. Ma makes
MAD HATTERS Busy spot with breakfast, lunch, brunch and tea parties in an eclectic setting with outdoor dining. $$ 320 Beauregard St MadHattersTea.com MARCH/APRIL 2019
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WEDDINGS
Straughan Photography
Photographer: Nikk Nguyen
Mr. & Mrs. Joshua Harter (Megan Greenwood) October 13, 2018
Mr. & Mrs. Duncan Beard (Allison Hatfield) December 29, 2018
Straughan Photography
Parish Photography
Mr. & Mrs. Marc Toppel (Rachel Boaz) January 19, 2019
Mr. & Mrs. Daniel Crawford (Kara Kiolbassa) January 19, 2019 MARCH/APRIL 2019
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LOOKING BACK
1948 Motorized riverboats on the River Walk were ahead of their time.
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