Saw Jul Aug 2013

Texas Organ Sharing Alliance: When Life Depends on a Donated Organ

A Guy to Know: Rick Cavender Cars and Music

2013 Guide to

Cindy Holland

San Antonio Reality Stars Tell What It's Like on Reality TV

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Private Schools

Designer Designer for for Ranches Ranches and and Homes Homes

CONTENTS JULY/AUGUST//2013

52

50 28

48

24

COLUMNS 12

Features 18 Reality Check Behind the scenes on national television

SPECIAL SECTIONS 40 Shop SA

Editor’s Letter

14

Contributors

16

What’s New

Shopping in San Antonio made easy

67 Texas Organ Sharing Alliance

55 Wine 57 Beauty & Fitness 62 Health Matters 83 Dollars & Sense

24 “I Just Want Them To Love Their Homes”

94 Businesswoman

Cindy Holland builds a business with persistence, work and faith

97 Mommy Matters

28 The Murano Glass House Home in Inverness glitters with artworks and collectibles

Spotlight 122 Restaurants 125 Weddings 128 Women on the Move

48 Guys to Know

129 AstroForecast

Rick Cavender: Cars and Music

130 Looking Back

50 Role Model

CALENDARS

Charlin Sam-Yu Madellin follows her parents into restaurant business

38 Fashion

99 Guide to Private Schools 2013

120 Entertainment

52 Dining

126 Events

Talking Thai: enjoy the spice and exotic flavors

85 Women in Real Estate Movers and shakers in San Antonio

92 Senior Living Senior living options

118 ArtBeat Yonnie Blanchette takes charge at the Carver Community Cultural Center

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COVER Photography Liz Garza Williams Hair and Makeup by Cynthia Hancevic Rocio Heller of Style H. Design, wardrobe stylist Jewelry by San Antonio Jewelers

www.sawoman.com

W EDITOR

Liz Garza Williams

Letter from the Editor

JULY/AUGUST 2013 PUBLISHER J. Michael Gaffney EDITOR Beverly Purcell-Guerra GRAPHIC DESIGN Kevin Herrera, Maria Jenicek, Jonathan Lee, Eric Weidner

What’s it like to be on a reality TV show — really? We have some answers to that question in this issue of SAN ANTONIO WOMAN. Read what Kim Spradlin Wolfe (Survivor), Nedra Harris (Hell’s Kitchen) and Victoria Acosta (American Idol) have to say about their time on these shows. Each young woman found the experience to be a positive one.

Our Profile, Cindy Holland, followed her heart from fashion merchandising to the furniture business and now is the co-owner, with her husband, of Hill Country Interiors.

SENIOR WRITER Jasmina Wellinghoff CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Paula Allen, Robyn Barnes, Ron Bechtol, Courtney Burkholder, Mary Anne Cole, Denise Easdon, Wendy Huston, Kelly A. Goff, Anne Moore, Bonnie Osterhage, Lance K. Rodriguez, Jennifer Chappell Smith, Janis Turk

While most of their customers are from South Texas, they also serve others from as far away as Colorado, South Dakota, Hawaii and Australia.

Meet two more outstanding San Antonio women, in Artbeat — Yonnie Blanchette, the dynamic executive director of the Carver Community Cultural Center — and in Role Model — Charlin Sam-Yu Madellin, who has grown up in her family’s restaurant, Hsiu Yu,

COPY EDITOR Kathryn Cocke PHOTOGRAPHY Liz Garza Williams, Al Rendon, Janet Rogers, Greg Harrison, Paul Overstreet, Casey Howell, Ric Johnson

and now serves as its manager.

We’re adding a new feature to these pages, Guys to Know, to spotlight some of the outstanding men living in San Antonio. Rick Cavender, our first subject, blends his family business, the Cavender Auto Family of dealerships, with his passion, making music and entertaining. The Rick Cavender Band plays dozens of gigs each year.

Our featured home, in Inverness, is the “consolidation home” for a South Texas couple and a showcase for their many treasures purchased on trips to Venice. Dining highlights Thai food, and Beauty stresses the importance of sunscreen to protect our skin in the South Texas sunny climate.

If you have youngsters who are moving into the world of instant communication tech-

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING Mike Carreon Jen Earhart Madeleine Justice Marcia Noyes ADMINISTRATION & CUSTOMER SERVICE Nancy A. Gaffney Josephine Guzman PRINTING Shweiki Media, San Antonio, Texas

nology, you will want to read Mommy Matters for some practical guidelines to deal with the iTouch/ iPad/ iPhone/ smartphone in their hands.

Shopping reminds us not to miss out on back-to-school bargains and summer sales,

For advertising information in

Health explores what integrative medicine is and is not, and Dollars and Sense highlights

San Antonio Woman

the steps to take if you are contemplating returning to the workforce.

call (210) 826-5375

Read about residential home care, a new concept in senior living. In Wine, you can

email: info@sawoman.com

take an imaginary seat at a memorable wine dinner, with exemplary food and wine pairings. There’s good news that the real estate market is on the upswing in San Antonio,

Published by

and the Real Estate Directory features agents from several Realtors’ offices.

Don’t miss our annual guide to private schools in the San Antonio area and a review of the life-saving work done by the Texas Organ Sharing Alliance. Please visit us at our

8603 Botts Lane, San Antonio, TX 78217 FAX 210-826-2856 • www.pixelworkscorporation.com

website, www.sawoman.com, and be our friend on Facebook.

Whatever else you do, stay cool.

BEVERLY PURCELL-GUERRA , EDITOR

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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.

W CONTRIBUTORS

Contributors

Writing for the Environments section of SAN ANTONIO WOMAN has allowed Robyn Barnes to enjoy one of her favorite pastimes: house hunting. Not to buy but just to experience all the different environments the world has to offer. “Every house has a story to tell, and every family who lives in a house tells the story differently,” she says. “My challenge is to discover what every family thinks is special about their home.” When she’s not writing about homes in her free time, Robyn serves as a public relations specialist for a software development company. She’s also helped her husband obedience-train five golden retrievers and is trying to teach her college-age son to cook.

“I

think I’ll have better luck with the retrievers,” she says.

“Unique homes make great assignments,” says photographer Al Rendon. “A room is four walls until someone moves in the first object. People choose their environment and the decor in a room to express their personality. The room expresses the family’s taste, and the unique homes of SAN ANTONIO WOMAN and now 78209 are very tastefully detailed. My photographs use light to bring a home’s personality to life. When I raise the camera and focus on a room’s view, I am composing to express its owners’ personality in the best light.” He has had more than a dozen major solo exhibits, and his work is in such permanent collections as the National Portrait Gallery of the Smithsonian Institution and the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago.

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CONTRIBUTORS W

july/august 2013 |

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W WHAT’S NEW

What’s New RUTH’S CHRIS TO OPEN AT GRAND HYATT ON RIVER WALK Ruth’s Chris Steak House will open in September at the Grand Hyatt San Antonio, occupying about 10,000 square feet of space on the River Walk level.

According to franchisee Lana Duke, Ruth’s Chris will close its St. Paul Square location just prior to the opening of the River Walk restaurant. The Concord Plaza location on Jones Maltsberger will remain open.

At the Grand Hyatt, Ruth’s Chris will be open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily. The restaurant will occupy the space that previously housed Achiote River Café.

BRAIN BALANCE ACHIEVEMENT CENTER PLANS JULY OPENING Zach and Amanda Petter are launching the Brain Balance Achievement Center to offer a nonmedical approach for eliminating children’s symptoms such as ADD, ADHD, Asperger’s, OCD and Tourette’s.

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The Center, at 1742 N. Loop 1604 East, Suite 121, will have its grand opening July 18-19. Dr. Robert Melillo, cofounder and creator of the program, will be a special guest.

Zach Petter is a doctor of chiropractic with a specialty in functional neurology, and Amanda Petter comes from the home health care field.

To learn more, call (210) 620-7378 or email SanAntonio@BrainBalance Centers.com.

SOUTHTOWN LANDS A FARMERS MARKET The founders and organizers of the Sunday Quarry Farmers & Ranchers Market are starting a Saturday market at the Blue Star Arts Complex, 116 Blue Star. The market will have its grand opening July 14.

The year-round producers-only market will be open every Saturday, rain or shine, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the parking lot of the Blue Star Arts Complex at the corner of South Alamo and Probandt.

Featured will be farm-fresh produce, pastured chickens and eggs, breads and baked goods, vegetarian and vegan foods, cold-pressed juices, coffee, local honey, gluten-free foods, healthy dog treats, plants, herbs and more.

For more information, call (210) 7225077 or email southtownfarmersmarket@gmail.com.

SAINT MARY’S HALL SENIORS WIN HONORS The 2013 senior class at Saint Mary’s Hall has been offered more than $9.7 million in merit-based scholarships to colleges and universities both nationally and internationally.

Among the 95 graduates are five National Merit Scholars, nine National Merit Finalists, 14 National Merit Commended Students, 10 National Hispanic Scholars and one U.S. Presidential Scholar.

The commencement ceremony was held May 24 at Laurie Auditorium.

To learn more about Saint Mary’s Hall, contact the Office of Admission at (210) 483-9234, or visit www.smhall.org.

W UP FRONT

Kim Spradlin Wolfe outlasted 17 cast mates to become the "Sole Survivor" on Survivor: One World, winning $1 million in the process. But she feels the most important part of her adventure was "knowing who I am. I am validated just by being me."

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UP FRONT W

REALITy

CHECk

Behind the scenes on national television

By JENNIFER CHAPPELL SMITH

Photography by LIZ GARZA WILLIAMS

T

hree women walk into a reality show audition. Could be the start of a joke, but it’s the beginning of three inspiring stories about dreams, determination, and — it’s not too strong a word — destiny.

A winner of Survivor. A Hollywood Week contestant on American

For Victoria Acosta, 21, her third audition was the charm when

Idol. And a chef in grueling Hell’s Kitchen. This trio of locals earned

American Idol came to San Antonio last summer. After trying out in

spots on some of TV’s most popular reality shows, doing the Alamo

Houston and Austin previous years, the mariachi-singer-turned-pop-

City — and themselves — proud.

singer finally got a ticket to Hollywood Week — along with the in-

For Kim Spradlin Wolfe, 30, the end of a painful marriage moti-

spiration to continue pursuing her dream of performing live music.

vated her to send in a video audition to Survivor — a show she’d

“An artist should touch people’s souls with their own,” she says, citing

watched since high school. The athletic Alamo Heights bridal shop

advice from the judging panel’s Keith Urban, who urged her to be

owner wanted to prove who she was in the most difficult environ-

more vulnerable during performances.

ment. In doing just that, she won the $1 million prize in May 2012,

Critics may decry reality TV as fluff, but the true reality is this:

concluding the Samoa-based season. Now happily married a second

The characters who make it onto such shows bear plenty of weight

time, she and her new husband aim to make a difference in San An-

— their past, their expectations, their strengths and weaknesses. It

tonio and the world. “We want to do things that matter,” she says.

takes courage to put themselves out there like these women did.

For Nedra Harris, 24, working under the fearsome Gordon Ram-

And when the cameras move on to the next crop of reality stars,

sey in Hell’s Kitchen helped the tell-it-like-it-is chef to get past per-

they are left with memories and lessons they will carry with them

sonal insecurities. “I didn’t learn how to cook while I was there, I

the rest of their lives. Find out how this trio of San Antonio women

learned about me,” she says. “I tapped into Nedra. It was like a retreat

fared, what they learned and what living through a reality show is

and like boot camp all at the same time.”

really like.

KIM SPRADLIN WOLFE: SOLE SURVIVOR

cil” at the Ed Sullivan Theater in New York

which would have protected her during a

City in May 2012. “That was one of the most

tribal council — if she had ever needed it.

Kim bounds into the Local Coffee on

difficult weekends of my life,” she says, re-

More than the million dollars she won, she

Broadway, energetic despite feeling a little

membering the dynamic among cast mem-

values “knowing who I am. I am fully vali-

under the weather for an interview. But the

bers she’d lived with, befriended and voted

dated just by being me.” Described as a quiet

woman who spent 39 days on a remote

against during the show, not to mention

leader, Kim was determined to forge her own

Samoan coast, outlasting and outwitting

wondering if she’d won the cool million.

fate on the show. “I didn’t want to be a side-

17 cast mates to win Survivor: One World,

With the competition down to three final-

kick. I wanted to go and make things hap-

says she’ll power through the conversa-

ists, she had no idea how the vote would go.

pen,” she says. “The whole thing is so

These days, the owner of bridal bou-

grueling — spiritually, emotionally, physically.

tion. She didn’t earn the title “Sole Survivor” for nothing.

Survive she did. “They gave you a ma-

tique Bella Bridesmaid doesn’t mind being

“It’s a game, but it’s people’s lives,” she

out of the spotlight, but after navigating al-

adds, noting that the dilemma of determin-

chete and four tablespoons per person of

liances among cast mates, losing 16 pounds

ing authentic relationships on the show is

rice a day,” Kim says. She subsisted on that

on the show and winning four immunity

almost as tough as the physical challenges.

meager supply, along with crabs she caught

challenges that meant others couldn’t vote

She had two alliances among the women,

and coconuts.

her off the island, she’s grateful for the ex-

one with the men, and used all of them to

No one in the coffee shop seems to no-

perience. “It made me feel alive again,” she

achieve the win. Her “nemesis” on the show,

tice the statuesque, long-haired blonde who

says, sharing how her divorce made her

Troy, is now a good friend, she says.

captivated the Survivor audience and dom-

ready to take on a new challenge. So com-

Two of the younger women in one of her

inated the game. She won by a vote of 7-2,

plete was Kim’s victory that she even found

alliances came to her wedding last spring in

as revealed in the show’s final “tribal coun-

and held on to a secret “immunity idol,”

Mexico, when she married Bryan Wolfe, a

july/august 2013 |

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W UP FRONT

She used the $1 million she won — plus the extra $100,000 she got for being voted “Player of the Season” by the show’s fans — to pay bills and to invest in the bridal boutique. She and her sister also helped rehab an old San Antonio convent used as a safe house for women getting out of the sex-trafficking trade. Though reluctant to promote the charitable work she’s embarking on, she’s eager to help with causes she believes in.

“I love to go from thing to thing to thing,” she says, adding that she used to wonder if that was to her detriment. Now she knows she’s just adventurous. Instead of “thing to thing,” she views her ambitions as going from “adventure to adventure.”

Next up? After selling her Austin bridal shop, she wants to sell the Alamo Heights shop, too. She’s managing a redo of the 1948 home in Monte Vista that she and Bryan recently bought. And she’s pondering having children someday.

“I recently told a friend, ‘I’m trying to think of something else to do,’” she says. Whatever it is, she’ll have the peace she brought to Samoa as castaway and carried, like a secret immunity idol, all the way back to South Texas.

Last spring Kim was married to Bryan Wolfe. Their wedding in Mexico was attended by two of the women she had met and befriended on Survivor. native of the Valley in South Texas, who works at USAA. Kim started dating Bryan just before heading to Samoa, but contractual obligations prohibited her from telling anyone where she was going. She even had to concoct a story to tell family and friends about helping the children in Colombia, where she would be unreachable for many weeks — a forerunner to the kinds of subtle deceptions she would have to perpetrate to win the show.

To weather the physical toll, she credits her dad, a high school football coach, with fostering a love of athletics in her and her sister, Beth: “He treated us like boys. He would say, ‘It’s not teaching you not to quit sports. It’s teaching you not to quit life.’”

In Samoa, she didn’t quit. She drew on years spent as a whitewater rafting guide in Colorado. And she relied on a deepening relationship with God, too. “God has become absolutely everything,” she says, adding

tional aftermath of her first marriage’s demise, she focused on finding

Chef Nedra Harris,with some of the tools of her trade. Her cooking won the praise of celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay on Hell's Kitchen. She is sous chef and banquet chef at the Tower of the Americas Chart House Restaurant.

peace. “Peace had been huge for me,” she says. “I was like a peaceful

NEDRA HARRIS: TO HELL’S KITCHEN AND BACK

that there’s nothing peripheral about her relationship with him now. On the island, as she dealt with her immediate circumstances and the emo-

presence amid the chaotic experience. I think it drew people to me.”

Over chips and salsa at La Gloria, chef Nedra Harris leaps up in her

Today, with her faith in God and a strong support system that in-

stylish navy maxi dress as ducks waddle toward the table. She shrieks.

cludes her new husband, friends, her parents, sister and a brother, she’s

She squeals. Almost as dramatic as her reaction to having to catch and

enjoying life after the big show. And she hasn’t changed much. She even

cage a wild turkey during a culinary challenge on the current season of

drives the same old Volkswagen Jetta “that needs a new timing belt.”

Hell’s Kitchen.

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UP FRONT W

A fan of living, breathing wild life Nedra is

before they enjoyed front-row seats at her

garnered the TV audience’s attention, she

not. But give her some raw lamb chops on a

concert. It was quite a contrast to Nedra’s

notes that she even trended on Twitter at one

stage in Las Vegas, and she’ll wow the tough-

typical evening in San Antonio, where she

point. And she enjoys checking out the blo-

est of critics — notoriously hard-to-please

works as sous chef at Tower of the Americas

gosphere to see what people say about her.

chef Gordon Ramsay. “I was the first girl to

Chart House Restaurant and where she was

Some say she’s hilarious, others, that she

earn a point [on the show],” she says.

recently named banquet chef, as well.

should start her own TV show. Building off

Despite the nervous stomach she calls

Despite Ramsay’s surly reputation, Nedra

“bubble guts,” Nedra turned out honey-

claims kinship. “Can I tell you a secret?” she

projects in the works — a cookbook, her blend

glazed rosemary-grilled lamb chops with a

asks, now safe from the ducks and back in her

of 20 spices called Pootie Spice™, and even a

double-grilled baked potato and bacon vinai-

seat at La Gloria. “All chefs are like that. I have

potential line of supportive bras for well-en-

grette for the first live episode. Worried about

a brigade of, like, 60 chefs. Each cook has a

dowed women.

time constraints, crafty Nedra doused her

different problem,” she says, adding that if

Her ultimate goal? To be a chef for celebri-

chops in piping hot honey glaze at the last

something’s not right, she can be just as

ties. She laughs when reminded that she her-

minute to help finish cooking them and held

tough as Ramsay.

her breath as Ramsay examined her plated food — perfectly cooked.

Her run on the show ended with her elim-

such national exposure, Nedra has several

self is already a celebrity of sorts, and she recounts her humble beginnings.

ination on Episode 13 last May, but she has no

Raised in Detroit, Nedra taught herself

regrets. “I didn’t cry. I didn’t cry at all. I got

how to cook as an eighth-grade latch-key kid.

after a roller coaster-like ride with flashing

sabotaged,” she says, explaining that her vol-

Tired of her mom’s tuna casserole, she found

lights that turned unsuspecting contestants

untary switch to the all-male team resulted in

chicken in the fridge and cooked it — along

onto a Vegas stage in front of a live audience

a power play against her. “They were, like, so

with almost everything else in the icebox —

and the series taskmaster. Vegas brought

happy that I was gone. It’s a game that has to

for friends. “I got in trouble that day. But

other surprises, too: a Caesar’s Palace suite,

be played, and I was a threat.”

That first encounter with Ramsay came

where Celine Dion serenaded the contestants

Proud that her direct banter and humor

everybody loved the food, so I thought, ‘Hey, I want to do this,’” she says.

july/august 2013 |

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W UP FRONT

After high school, she graduated from the School of Culinary Arts of Le Cordon Bleu in Chicago, where she worked part-time for famed chef Wolfgang Puck for some catering events. She interned at Walt Disney World Resort.

But she’s long had an eye on Hell’s Kitchen. Her first year in culinary school, at age 17, she called about auditioning, but was turned away because of her age. With almost seven more years of culinary experience after following her parents down to South Texas, she auditioned again when the show came to San Antonio last year. This time, she got invited to audition more than once in L.A. — including a call-back during the week of her twin sister’s wedding. As maid of honor, Nedra went anyway and must have impressed the judges, if not her sister, who has since forgiven her for barely making it back in time for her wedding day.

As she worked on the various challenges Hell’s Kitchen sent her way, she clung to her philosophy about food. “You eat with your eyes first. The smells are next, and then the taste,” she says. “I love to design.”

But beyond the artistry of food, she takes food safety in a restaurant seriously. “Our job is like a doctor’s: People’s lives are in our hands,” she explains, adding that those with severe allergies and women who are pregnant can be severely affected by raw food or other mistakes in the kitchen. She notes that chefs are on call like doctors, as well. If something goes wrong in the kitchen, her cell phone might ring.

When she’s not working, this chef’s fa-

VICTORIA ACOSTA: GOING TO HOLLYWOOD Strutting in glittering gold sequin shorts atop black patent stilettos, American Idol

best in show at a 2001 mariachi competition for elementary-through-college-age singers.

And that success and skill got her noticed during her Idol audition last year.

vorite restaurants around town aren’t fancy:

alum Victoria Acosta punches the air to the

The producers picked her to profile during

Magnolia House, Mi Tierra Restaurant & Bak-

beat of cover band E7. As she shares vocal du-

the audition show, showcasing her lifetime

ery, Freddy’s Frozen Custard and Steakburg-

ties tonight for renditions of Michael Jack-

love of mariachi as she wore a traditional cos-

ers and Max’s Wine Dive for chicken and

son’s Billie Jean and Lady Gaga’s Poker Face,

tume along the River Walk in mini-profile for

waffles. The one thing she can’t sample in San

this gig on the Stonewerks patio at The Rim

the national viewing audience to see. At her

Antonio is seafood. She’s allergic to shellfish,

is just part of the plan Victoria has for making

San Antonio audition, she sang Fergie’s Big

even though she loves to cook with it.

music the focus of her life.

Girl’s Don’t Cry, but it left the judges wanting

As the animated Nedra talks about her run

Raised in San Antonio and steeped in the

something more. She gave it to them when

on Hell’s Kitchen, she grows reflective. “I al-

tradition of mariachi music, the dark-haired, pe-

they let her sing a mariachi number, too, re-

ways looked at myself as mediocre. I am

tite star-in-the-making also fronts the Austin-

vealing the passion that the panel of Randy

afraid of a lot of things,” she admits. But on

based band Los Bad Apples. She helps write

Jackson, Nicki Minaj, Mariah Carey and Keith

Hell’s Kitchen, she “just kept reaching a differ-

the group’s songs, such as the ballad My Heart

Urban were looking for. “When I went into the

ent plateau.” With a new confidence, she says:

Says Yeah, exclusively released to local Tejano

room, my mouth got dry,” she remembers of

“If I can do this,” gesturing with her hand, “I

station KXTN last June and later on iTunes.

her third attempt to get that golden ticket to

can do this,” moving her hand up a notch.

Watching tonight’s performance at The

And though she exited early, the fires of

Rim, Victoria’s mom acknowledges she and

Hollywood. “It’s shocking the presence the judges actually have.”

Hell’s Kitchen turned out to be a blessing. “If I

her husband introduced Victoria to mariachi

During her Hollywood adventure, with her

had to do it all over again, I definitely wouldn’t

music at an early age, but says their daughter

parents watching from the balcony, she sang

do it once. I’d do it 10 times,” she says.

grew to love it herself. At age 8, Victoria won

Killing Me Softly with His Song for the a cap-

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UP FRONT W Victoria Acosta won her first notice as a singer in a mariachi competition at the age of 8. Last year, as a pop singer, she was chosen during an American Idol audition to sing in Idol's Hollywood Week contest. She is thinking of auditioning again in August for another Idol appearance.

pella solo audition, but she had a tough time with the group audition. She fell in with a group of girls who insisted on singing Good Girl by Carrie Underwood. “I’m not a country singer,” Victoria says. The gang stayed up late working on harmonies and choreography, but Idol didn’t feature the group prominently on the show. “None of us went through [to the next round],” she says, adding that she doesn’t begrudge the process. “It’s about endurance. You have to have the ability to step up to the plate.”

Though she tried her best and turned heads as an early Latina frontrunner, she found herself back in San Antonio. “I wish I would have given a little more of myself,” she says. But Keith Urban’s advice resonated long after her California dreams faded. He told her to break down the wall she unintentionally puts up during performances. “I’m really trying to find places in myself that will express what the song means to the audience,” she says.

And she may have another shot to demonstrate what she’s learned: Auditions for Idol’s 2014 season come to Austin this August. She and her little sister, who sings, plays four instruments and already goes by the stage name Rayne Katz, may audition then.

“I’m so proud of her,” she says.

She acknowledges the show honors perseverance, but whether Victoria auditions or not, she’ll be busy. Working part-time as a bank teller, she plans to enroll this fall at the University of the Incarnate Word to study pharmacy like her father did. She’ll work on songwriting — a passion for this lover of English literature. After all, “Lyrics are poetry,” she explains. She’ll keep performing with E7 and Los Bad Apples at hot spots in San Antonio and Austin. And she’ll hold on to her dream.

“For the judges to send you to Hollywood there’s something special about you. Out of the thousands of people, I was one of the people who went,” she says, flashing that audition-ready smile. “I just have this confidence now [that] I can deliver what the audience wants. No matter what happens, I’ll never have any regrets, because I’ve continued to pursue my dream of music.”

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W PROFILE

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PROFILE W

“I Just Want them to Love Their Home” Building a business with persistence, work and faith

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF, Senior Writer

C

Photography by LIZ GARZA WILLIAMS

indy Holland was 26, single and working 72 hours a week in fashion merchandising when it hit her one

day that there should be more to life than work.

“I woke up one morning and decided that I needed a 9 to 5 job, with nights and weekends off,” says Cindy, who is now the co-owner — with her husband, Bill Holland — of Hill Country Interiors, a large furniture store on 1604 that specializes in stately furnishings in Western and Old World styles.

It took a while to get where she is now, but once the decision was made, the young woman immediately started changing her life to achieve her goals. Today, she feels that she and Bill are in a place “way beyond a dream.” Her pride in their business is evident as she gives us a tour of the 30,000-square-foot facility built in 2006 specifically to house their showroom and auxiliary spaces. Throughout the retail space, the various items are grouped into room configurations — called vignettes — to help customers see what they would look like in a home.

Cindy Holland,center, co-owner with her husband of Hill Country Interiors, is pictured with her team of designers. From left, they are Susan Schubert, Sherri Wood, Kelli Damon and April Hewlett. They are gathered in the store's kitchen, which is used when the owners entertain to promote a designer or host other festivities.

The Hollands’ customers are a cross-sec-

Despite their growing reputation, the Hol-

tion of Dominion types, including sports

lands have resisted calls to expand to other

To make it even homier, there’s a fully

celebrities, regular folks and ranchers. “They

cities, preferring to remain “a Mom and Pop

equipped kitchen right in the middle of things,

all come here for the Old World look,” says the

San Antonio-based and operated” business.

and cooking smells may tickle customers’ nos-

owner, explaining the predominance of dark

Both husband and wife are involved in buying

trils sometimes. The kitchen comes in espe-

woods and upholstery. “Light colors are more

the merchandise, but unlike most stores that

cially handy when the owners throw a party to

contemporary and not as family friendly. Peo-

advertise the brands they carry, the pair like to

promote a designer or host other festivities on

ple beyond this region have found out about

de-emphasize manufacturers’ names. “Every-

the premises. There’s also an office furniture

us, too, and we have customers from South

thing is tagged with our name,” notes Cindy.

and lighting section, a rug gallery and an ad-

Dakota, Hawaii and even Australia. People will

“We have exclusive contracts with manufactur-

jacent warehouse. Bored kids who accompany

fly here to do business with us. We also outfit

ers that allow us to be the only retailer in San

their shopping parents can play or watch

a lot of second homes. We are working on one

Antonio to offer their products. They are our

videos in a separate room.

in Steamboat, Colo., right now.”

resources. It’s a dog-eat-dog world right now

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W PROFILE

Cindy and Bill Holland both moved from Dallas to San Antonio, where they became marital and business partners in 1993.

Their first enterprise was Santa Fe Furnishings. Opposite, they are pictured with their daughter, Lindsey, and their son, Bill.

She was 29 and still single when her brother made the call “that changed (her) life.” A San Antonio-based entrepreneur, Joe Veytia offered to help his sister start her own business, suggesting one in the Alamo City that was in the process of closing. It was a 650-squarefoot mother-daughter shop on I-10 called the Santa Fe Stop. Cindy agreed and promptly moved south. Her future husband, whom she had started dating in Dallas, eventually came down to help her, and the two became both marital and business partners in 1993. By that time, the renamed Santa Fe Furnishings had already moved to Ingram Park Mall, where it prospered for 10 years. The couple’s two children were also born in that period.

Changes at the mall and in customers’ tastes forced the Hollands to move their business farther north in the early 2000s, first to a space at 281 and Brook Hollow and ultimately to the current location, gradually adding more Western, Mediterranean and Old World styles in the furniture business. You don’t put your re-

makes the management decisions. The houses

to their inventory. “It’s what customers

sources in the ads.” What they do want to em-

that Cindy set up for several Parade of Homes

wanted. The Santa Fe look was no longer pop-

phasize is the quality and service. Hill Country

events won the Interior Design Award twice

ular,” explains Cindy. “If you don’t follow the

Interiors’ sofas have a lifetime warranty, as op-

and the People’s Choice Award multiple times.

trend, you don’t grow. (With the new styles) our ranch and home business just took off.”

posed to the common five years, for instance.

“We can’t sell anything that will fall apart in

IT HAS TAKEN 22 YEARS

A devout Christian, she believes that God

a few years because our customers are our

Following her “aha!” moment that morn-

has had a hand in her and Bill’s success. In

neighbors and parents of children who go to

ing in Dallas, Cindy, whose surname was Vey-

fact, a cross is embedded in the foundation

school with our children,” says the lady-in-

tia, took a first step toward a new career by

of the new building at Blanco and 1604. She

charge with conviction. “Reputation is very im-

becoming a saleswoman for an office furni-

quotes the best advice she’s ever received

portant. Customers come back here; we know

ture leasing company in North Dallas. That’s

and has strived to follow: “If you make this

them. We go to their homes and help them

where she first discovered her talent for dec-

business your own, it will only be what you

plan a room, sometimes piece by piece. I just

orating. When clients asked her to go beyond

can see. But if you make it God’s business,

want them to love their homes. We redid a

the basics to help them pull together a com-

he will make it more than you could ever

dude ranch in Bandera 12 years ago, and the

plete “established and sophisticated” look for

dream of.”

owner called just yesterday because she wants

their offices, she was happy to oblige. Nissan

But like the rest of us, the Hollands expe-

us to redecorate again, so I am going to have

and one of Ross Perot’s companies used her

rienced the recent economic pinch just six

lunch with her to talk about it.”

services. “I loved everything about the job,”

months after moving into their dream house.

she says.

It took a year-and-a-half to build it, but when

Though she is not a licensed interior designer, Holland has an eye for décor and acces-

Despite her success as a saleswoman,

the economy went south and business slowed

sorizing, and she is the one who sets up the

however, her superior eventually assigned her

down, the family had to sell it and move to a

showroom displays and helps customers with

territory to someone else — “a friend of the

more modest dwelling. “We made a personal

their selections. Bill is the financial pro who

boss” — and Cindy saw her commissions drop.

sacrifice to stay open,” she says.

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PROFILE W

In keeping with their faith, the family contributes generously

in Paraguay), so when we were approached by the military to help

to the community without much fanfare. Hill Country Interiors

with the Warrior and Family Support Center at Fort Sam Houston,

has given $25,000 shopping certificates as auction items to

where the wounded soldiers and families can visit with each other,

help the fundraising efforts of the American Cancer Society

we donated all the furniture in there. I did that for my dad and the

(Cattle Baron’s Gala), the San Antonio Christian School and two

wounded men. We were honored to do it.”

Boerne-based charities supported by the Cordillera Ranch

Before we part, Cindy admits that this is her first time to speak

Shindig. Whenever asked, the company also lends a hand prac-

to the press and that she was reluctant at first: “But I feel there’s a

tically. In addition, Cindy is an active volunteer at their Commu-

story here; it’s an American dream story about a Hispanic girl who

nity Bible Church.

was not the smartest in class, but to whom God gave a gift. We

“We occasionally give furniture for free,” she adds. “My dad was a colonel in the military (and a military attaché in the U.S. embassy

never forgot where we came from, and it has not always been easy, but we have been blessed.”

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W ENVIRONMENTS

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ENVIRONMENTS W

The Murano Glass House Home in Inverness glitters with artworks and collectibles

By ROBYN BARNES Photography AL RENDON

T

he neighborhood of Inverness, on San Antonio’s

The 4,000-square-foot three-bedroom home features 14-

north side, is a forested enclave accessed through

foot ceilings and an abundance of windows for natural lighting.

security gates where the guards mean business.

The winding streets pass beautiful homes with manicured

VENETIAN MEMORIES

lawns and perfect landscaping. Within this peaceful com-

Elegance begins at the threshold, where stout wooden

munity, Kristine and Jerry Funk have established an elegant

doors accented with glass and wrought iron open into a

and thoroughly livable home.

soaring entry. Cool tile floors provide counterpoint to the

The Funks purchased the house from the original own-

sparkling chandelier from an antique shop in New Orleans.

ers, who used builder J.L. Hawkins Fine Custom Homes.

To the right of the doorway is a hand-blown glass picture

“Jerry Hawkins did a wonderful job building the home,” Kris-

of the Madonna, the first of many Murano artworks the cou-

tine says. “We’re so pleased with the floor plan and the ar-

ple collected during their travels to Venice.

chitectural details.”

The origins of Murano glass date back to the Roman Em-

The Inverness home is the fourth South Texas home the

pire. Glassmaking originated in Venice, but in 1291 a law was

couple have owned. “This is our consolidation home,” Kris-

passed that established Murano as the premier glassmaking

tine says. “We have a ranch in South Texas, which we’ve

source of Italy. Today the city is still recognized as the

kept. We had a home in Harlingen and a townhouse here in

world’s center of art glass.

San Antonio. We needed to downsize and consolidate to a one-story house, and this one met our needs.”

For Kristine, lighting is an important component of interior design, and the chandelier is her mainstay. “In my opinion, every home should have them,” she says. Her sunroom

The Inverness home of Kristine and Jerry Funk is where they have chosen to downsize and consolidate their possessions.

Scattered throughout the house are mementos from their trips to Venice, including a painting of the canals, opposite, and a Venetian mirror, above.

is no exception. The chandelier in this room is from Venice and is a perfect complement to the room’s casual décor.

The aqua green sofa and chairs are grouped around a large glass and iron coffee table. The curio cabinet holds glass-

july/august 2013 |

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W EVIRONMENTS

ware collected from Kristine and

UNUSUAL WINDOWS

canals. Cut glassware is displayed on

Jerry’s travels; much of it is from Italy.

When the weather is inclement,

a silver tray on the large coffee table.

Across the room, soaring built-ins

gatherings move to the living room,

Along one wall, a collection of brass

flank the large stone fireplace.

where another chandelier presides over

candlesticks clusters on a sofa table.

The hand-blown glass vases dis-

a room of white shutters, sofa, chairs

Kristine’s favorite piece of art in this

played in the sunroom are by Peter

and accents. The tall shuttered win-

room is the white St. Francis. “It came

Raos of New Zealand. Raos is a world-

dows are topped by small round win-

from Sorrento, Italy,” she says. “It is so

renowned glassblower whose vases

dows, rather like the dot over a

serene. I love looking at it.”

and paperweights resemble impres-

lower-case “i.”

Kristine says, “Those

The living room flows into the din-

sionist garden paintings.

windows catch your attention when

ing room, where a large rectangular

The back wall of the sunroom is of glass, with French doors leading onto

you drive down the street. I’ve never

oak table seating 10 is placed on a col-

seen anything like them.”

orful Turkish rug. Another Venetian

the expansive patio. The patio over-

The fireplace is a twin of the one in

cityscape hangs over a sideboard. The

looks a landscape of flowers, turf,

the sunroom; an ornate mirror hangs

adjacent china cabinet holds a large

pavers and a large round fountain that

above the mantel, reflecting the

collection of crystal barware.

burbles amid birdsong. The Funks

room’s natural light. Paintings of

Tucked into a corner is a family

enjoy entertaining here when the

Venice hang on each side, reminders

heirloom. It looks like a small cabinet

weather is fine.

of long walks the couple took on the

with doors and a drop leaf, and if you

The sunroom is lighted by a Venetian chandelier as well as sunlight streaming through the French doors. Collectibles on the mantel include glass vases from Venice and others by Peter Raos of New Zealand. The patio beyond is perfect for entertaining in good weather.

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W ENVIRONMENTS

didn’t know better, you might think it was a lady’s drop front desk. In fact, it’s an antique bar. “This belonged to Jerry’s mother,” Kristine says.

“The drop leaf folds down so you can pull out the barware stored behind it. The liquor is kept below.”

CAPACIOUS KITCHEN Through the door on the far side of the dining room is the bar, which connects to the kitchen. Kristine points out the unusual sconce on the wall. It resembles a bunch of grapes and is another piece of art glass from Murano.

The spacious kitchen is a cook’s paradise, with a place for everything. Storage is abundant. “In fact,” Kristine says, “we have so much storage that when we moved in, I used Post-It notes on the drawers and cabinets so I could remember where I put everything.”

One end of the room serves as a breakfast area, with an antique three-pedestal table that seats six. The dainty chandelier over the table is another Murano art piece. A vintage Regulator clock faces the table, marking time for dinner. On the opposite wall is a convenient kitchen desk, built into a long counter and cabinet arrangement. Kristine plans her days here.

32 | sawoman.com

The spacious kitchen offers abundant storage space, granite countertops and a tile backsplash interspersed with tiny squares of the granite. Kristine plans her days at the kitchen desk, built into a long counter and cabinet arrangement.

ENVIRONMENTS W

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W ENVIRONMENTS

The spacious island commands the

of his extensive collection of Western

center of the kitchen; each side contains

bronzes. The large wooden desk and

shelves or drawers. All the countertops

comfortable chairs make this a pleasant

are granite. The tile backsplash along the

room for business or pleasure.

back wall is Wedgwood blue, with tiny

The two guest rooms have their own

squares of the granite countertop worked

baths, and each takes advantage of the

into the design. With the exception of the

high ceilings for its décor. The four-poster

Sub-Zero refrigerator, all the appliances

bed in the pink room would overwhelm a

are Jenn-Air.

space with a lower ceiling, but it’s a per-

Beyond the kitchen is a large storage

fect fit here. At the foot of the bed is a

closet with shelves holding all kinds of

handmade doll house, complete with fur-

Christmas wrap and decorations. The

niture and hand-woven rugs, belonging to

laundry room across the way can easily

Kristine’s daughter.

handle the demands of a busy family.

And the garage is a handyman’s dream —

“I’m waiting for the next generation to come play with it,” Kristine chuckles.

not only is there plenty of space for two

The master suite is divided into sec-

cars, but there is also a bay with a work-

tions. The master bath features a large

bench and sink.

Jacuzzi tub beneath a garden window, a tiled frameless shower alongside. His-and-

HOME OF BRONZE

her vanities are separated by the door-

Jerry has a beautiful study, located to

way. Kristine and Jerry have their own

the left of the entry hall. The room has

roomy walk-in closets at opposite ends of

large windows that provide natural light

the bath.

— and no glare — on his computer moni-

A short hall connects the bath to the

tor. A wall of built-in shelves displays part

master bedroom. The space is used to

34 | sawoman.com

The dining room table seats 10. Another Venetian cityscape hangs over the sideboard, and the china cabinet is filled with crystal barware.

W

july/august 2013 |

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W ENVIRONMENTS

Two guest rooms, at left and below, can accommodate friends and family. Each has its own bath. The master bath, bottom right, features a large Jacuzzi tub beneath a garden window.

display Kristine’s colorful collection of perfume

bottles

and

paperweights.

“Looking at the colorful glass, in all its shapes and forms, always makes me happy,” she says.

The master bedroom opens onto the back porch through tall French doors.

The king-size verdigris metal bed is dressed in off-white bedclothes with piles of pillows and a soft spread. It faces a set of built-in cabinets that hold curios, a large flat-screen television and a beautiful open umbrella from Myanmar (Burma).

Beside the cabinet is a portrait of Kristine’s daughter painted by Billy Price Carroll, a portraitist of international acclaim.

LUCKY CHOICE Kristine is the first to tell you how challenging it is to consolidate more than 40 years of memories, artworks and furniture into one house. “It was exhausting work,” she says. “We’ve been here a year, and I’m not done with it yet.”

She’s also the first to tell you how lucky she and Jerry are to live in such a great community. “The neighbors have all been so kind to us,” she says. “They’ve brought food by, stopped in to introduce themselves and invited us to neighborhood gatherings. They’ve made us feel right at home.”

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AROUND TOWN W

COMMUNITY IN SCHOOLS PRESENTS

KEEPING KIDS IN SCHOOL LUNCHEON 1. Top: Lynn Thompson, Sharon Burg, Sylvia Samano, Lora Watts and Teri Wenglein. Bottom: Marcia Shelley, Dianna Roy and Jan Newton.

1

2. Cheryl Leslie, Barbara Alexander,

4

Dr. Michael MacNaughton, Rufus Samkin and Jessica Weaver 3. Wayne and Barbara Alexander, Councilman Rey Salda単a, Cheryl and Bruce Leslie and Rufus Samkin

ECUMENICAL CENTER FOR RELIGION AND HEALTH PRESENTS

2

5

ETHICS IN BUSINESS LUNCHEON 4. Paola Retes, Jeanette Garcia, Matthew White and Ryan Salts 5. Steve Bridges, Joe Hutchison and Fred Petmecky 6. Lee Lahourcade, Lynne Lahourcade-Breuer and Lance Lahourcade

3

6

july/august 2013 |

37

W FASHION CALENDAR

SAN ANTONIO FASHION EVENTS July 11-13 Neiman Marcus Guerlain Super Aqua Collection

By Appointment July 14-20 Neiman Marcus Sisley Facial Event

By Appointment July 19 – August 4 Nordstrom Anniversary Celebration 2013 Collections Storewide Special Pricing July 24 Neiman Marcus Lancome 2013 Facial Event

By Appointment July 26-27 Neiman Marcus Orlane Royal Facial Event

By Appointment

August 1 Neiman Marcus Versace Styling Event 2013 Collection August 5-10 Andie & Barbara Painted Pony Trunk Show Jackets! Newest Styles and Colors August 7-8 Julian Gold Jay Godfrey Trunk Show Daytime and Evening Dresses August 22-23 Julian Gold Caravan of Evening Wear Featuring Multiple Designers of Evening Gowns August 27 Neiman Marcus Shamask 2013 Styling Event

By Appointment 38 | sawoman.com

july/august 2013 |

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W SHOPPING

Summer

Days, Drifting Away...

BY JANIS TURK

But oh, the summer sales!

Summer is almost over, and soon the kids will head back to school. By September, things will fall into a comfortable routine after Labor Day. “Summer days, drifting away...” as the song from

Medallion Pendant Necklace from $2,400 retail.

Grease longingly laments. So how can you and your family make the best of these final days of fun in the sun? Head outdoors, of course.

Yes, there’s still time to swim, go for a boat ride, head to the beach, hike and bike, throw a Frisbee, work on your tan, run in the sprinkler and lounge by the pool. This is your chance for a final summer fling (with your hubby and kids, of course), so take advantage

of all the summertime fun still left. Don’t waste sunny days by staying indoors — unless you’re shopping at one of San Antonio’s nifty (and oh-so-air-conditioned) little stores, great shopping centers like Lincoln Heights, the Shops at La Cantera, Quarry Village and Quarry Market or fabulous malls, like North Star, of course.

August and September are the best times to shop, for these are the months for big backto-school sales and end-of-season bargains. And don’t forget to take the kids shopping on tax-free days for even greater savings, so you can pick up the best back-to-school fashions and super cool school supplies. The Texas tax-free weekend for general merchandise will be August 16-18 and will cover items that cost less than $100, including clothing and footwear, school supplies, backpacks for elementary and secondary students and more. Best of all, it

Keep the colors of summer in your wardrobe all year long with these colorful rings and necklaces made of fine gemstones in unique settings from designer Stephanie Albertson, whose jewelry is handcrafted in the United States in 22K gold, diamonds and an array of candy-colored gemstones. Inspired by the vibrant colors of summer, luxurious textures and irresistible-to-the-touch materials, Albertson’s creations are timeless collectible luxuries. I love the stack rings that remind me of seaglass treasures found in a myriad of colors on the beach. www.stephaniealbertson.com; (866) 217-8374 toll-free.

even includes layaway purchases.

Besides back-to-school shopping, white sales on linens, towels and more often take center stage this month, and outdoor furniture, gardening tools and summer sporting goods are al-

Stack rings. From $700 - $1,800 retail.

ways big bargain items before the fall merchandise makes its way into San Antonio stores.

Don’t forget to shop for indoor items, too — look for big sales on furniture in September as new inventory arrives and design showrooms restage their floors with new pieces for fall.

Heading to Port A for one last summer weekend, what do you bring? How about water- and sand-resistant bags? Store your wet swimsuit, keep sundries separate in your beach bag, protect your essential electronics with colorful TRUFFLE pouches. Made from PVC material that protects your favorite things from water and sand, these handy dandy bags easily wipe clean in case your sunscreen leaks. www.onetruffle.com. $32.

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W SHOPPING

Head outside and enjoy this month’s end-of-season and back-to-school bargains!

Have one last cookout at the lake while the kids chase fireflies on a summer night. Perfect for tailgating and car camping, the Primus Profile Dual stove features a 3360 W burner and a barbecue grill burner with a removable stainless steel drip tray with non-stick coating, allowing for easy cleanup. The stove can boil water in three minutes and offers enough cooking space to serve up to 10 people. www.primuscamping.com. $139.

You can take kids away from their computer stations, but they bring their smartphones and hand-held games with them everywhere they go. Even if you’re on a campout or hanging out at the lake, you’ll all need to power up at some point. So don’t forget to bring a portable power device, like Brunton’s smallest power pack, the water-resistant Inspire™, which allows you to recharge personal electronics (phone, iPod, headlamps, lanterns, GPS) multiple times without needing to plug into an outlet, making it perfect for outdoor use and travel. $72.

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SHOPPING W

It’s not fair that kids get new backpacks every August while you’re still lugging around the same worn-out laptop bag or briefcase. Why not get a new stylish Scandinavian Fjällräven, Rucksack No.21, a classic luggage option for everyday use and travel? The Rucksack No. 21 features specialized compartments for a laptop and thermos/water bottle and has padded straps that provide added comfort and support, premium leather details, two side pockets and a removable seat pad. Available in five colors (our favorite is navy), the Rucksack 21 is available at Backcountry.com. $199.95.

Ariat, Summerside in Natural, $228.

Don’t burn your toes on hot pavement or scorch them in burning sand.

Strap on some cute new sandals. Transition from poolside to dinner with a sophisticated version of this summer footwear staple by Ariat. This leather platform wedge easily slips on to provide sophisticated summer style, while the more traditional T-strap sandal offers a trendy touch with snakeskin detailing, both available at www.ariat.com. Want to shop locally?

Head to Kathleen Sommers boutique to find this year’s hottest summer sportswear, sundresses, sandals and more. www.kathleensommers.com.

Ariat, Stratford in Python Print, $148.

july/august 2013 |

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W SHOPPING

It’s hot, but you’re still active in summer, so you’ll need clothes that stay cool but look great. That’s why Columbia Sportswear, available at shops all over town, offers the Total Zero Tank top with Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection, Omni-Freeze ZERO sweat-activated cooling and Omni-Wick EVAP for advanced sweat evaporation. Need something a little more stylish for summer nights out? Check out this Global Adventure Dress with Omni-Wick EVAP for quick perspiration evaporation, OmniShade 40 sun protection and a zip-closed security pocket so you can carry your mad money with you at the beach. www.columbia.com.

Women’s CoolheadTM Ballcap III. $32.

Global Adventure Dress with Omni-Wick EVAP for quick perspiration evaporation, Omni-Shade 40 sun protection and a zipclosed security pocket $65.

Total Zero Tank top with Omni-Shade UPF 50 sun protection, Omni-Freeze ZERO sweat-activated cooling and Omni-Wick EVAP for advanced sweat evaporation. $37 at columbia.com

Women’s YamaTM Swift Shoe $100.

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SHOPPING W

july/august 2013 |

45

FabulousFinds VINOUSLY SPEAKING WINE SHOP & BLOG

Your go-to sparkling wine for mimosas! The Weibel Vineyards “Almond Sparkling Wine” (N.V.) from Woodbridge, California is a delicious demi-sec sparkling wine with a delicate almond flavor layered over impressions of pear, green apple and toasted vanilla. Pair with brunch!

7271 Wurzbach, Ste. 117 (210) 793-4078 www.vinouslyspeaking.com

PEÑALOZA & SONS

A Finger Mate expandable ring shank replaces the existing shank on your ring, opens to go over knuckles, then locks closed in the wearing position.

Available in 14K or platinum, from $300. At Peñaloza & Sons.

2001 N.W. Military Hwy. (210) 340-3536 www.penalozaandsons.com

ENCORE FOR WOMEN

The difference between ordinary & extraordinary!

Come in & experience Encore where our customers & consignors are our priority! Pictured: Bill Blass silk brocade dress, black satin Christian Louboutin evening pumps, black Prada evening bag with beaded handle.

1931 N.W. Military Hwy, Suite 101 (210) 341-0939

78209 MAGAZINE

Subscribe to this monthly magazine that keeps you up to date about people and events in ZIP code 78209. Only $15.95 for a one-year subscription, from the publishers of SAN ANTONIO WOMAN.

Subscribe Now for $15.95/year (210) 826-5375 www.78209Magazine.com

MEEMO’S BAKERY

Muffins, cinnamon rolls, sandwiches, cookies, cupcakes and cakes for special occasions - Meemo’s Bakery has it. Items are baked fresh daily from scratch using the best ingredients.

210 W. Sunset Road (210) 390-1592 www.meemosbakery.com

visit us online at www.ShopSA.com

AROUND TOWN W

WOMEN’S COUNCIL OF REALTORS PRESENTS

GAMES & DAMES BENEFITING

LEUKEMIA & LYMPHOMA SOCIETY 1. Sheila Moran, Leti Sterneckert , Kristin Moran, Brenda Mullen, Lois Moran 1

2. Karen Shaffer, Caroline Daly,

4

Randall Zamora, Amy Heatherly 3. Mike Myer, Lora DeBord, Debbie Keeland and David Moore

SAN ANTONIO CAN HIGH SCHOOL PRESENTS

2

10TH ANNUAL MOTHERHOOD LUNCHEON

5

4. City Manager Sheryl Sculley, Tracy Wolff, Debbie Montford and Dr. Maria Hernandez Ferrier 5. Richard Marquez, Rosemary Kowalski, Mary Worth and Mark Johnson 6. Carrie Baker Wells, Lila Cockrell and Jolie Berndt

3

6

may/june 2013 |

47

GUYS TO KNOW

Rick Cavender: Cars and Music

By Courtney Burkholder

Photography by Casey Howell

GUYS TO KNOW W

I

f you ever find yourself humming along to the commercial jingle Confidence is Cavender… confidence is Caven-

der, then Rick Cavender may already feel like a trusted friend. Rick has managed to do what most people only

dream of doing: merging a hugely successful family business, Cavender Auto Family of dealerships, with his

passion, making music and entertaining.

Often referred to as the voice and personality behind the Cavender Auto Family, by day Rick serves as vice president of the Cavender Auto Family and president of Cavender Audi. But by night, it’s his band, the Rick Cavender Band, and his music that bring the recognizable sparkle to his eye and the warmth to his voice.

Married for 32 years to his beautiful wife, Suzanne, he is the father of two grown daughters, Courtney (25) and Claire (21). The Cavenders have called San Antonio home for as many years. I sat down with Rick to find out a little more about this self-proclaimed entertainer who has a lifetime of experience in the car business and over 20 years in the music industry.

young to play the guitar, so I taped paper on a

need to adapt to so many different styles. It

is the business different now than when you

tennis racquet, drew six guitar strings on it, and

also makes it fun because we never get bored

first became involved in your father’s business

pretended to play. I sang All My Loving and I

with the material. My band members are ex-

over 30 years ago?

Saw Her Standing There to the kids in my

tremely talented, and they put in a lot of time

kindergarten class!

and energy to prepare and rehearse. They are

Q: The car business is in your blood. How

A: More than anything, this business allows me to continue and expand on the customer

At age 10, my mom bought me my first gui-

also patient with the songs I introduce. They

relationships that our family and valued em-

tar at the Junior League Rummage Sale and

adjust and play just about anything. In fact, we

ployees have created. Since I began working as

called the great Harry Pack to teach me to play.

played the Muppets’ Rainbow Connection re-

a service department porter in my high school

We became close friends, and I will always re-

cently for a bride and groom's first dance. I

summer jobs back in the mid-‘70s, I learned

member him as my mentor. He played at our

sang the Kermit part, and our drummer, Tammy

that when family leads with good example and

wedding 12 years later.

Frost, sang the Miss Piggy part.

hard work, your coworkers will respond with high standards and enthusiasm.

Q: What inspires you to keep entertaining after 20 years?

Q: You are very active in the San Antonio Rotary Club. How did you become involved in Rotary, and what do you enjoy about it?

That has not changed through four gener-

A: It's great fun to play music with good

ations of family member involvement since we

friends and to entertain at so many different

A: My late grandfather, Bishop Harold Gos-

began, when my grandfather bought out an

and wonderful receptions, galas and special

nell, introduced me to Rotary and saved me a

Oldsmobile dealer in 1939 downtown on

celebrations. It never gets old because we

chair every Wednesday at the lunch meetings.

Broadway at the same location where our

change and tailor the songs we play for each

He always taught me to serve others with good

Cadillac store still operates.

event.

deeds and compassion. Rotary truly embodies

What has changed is the measurement to which we are now held accountable. The bar is

Q: You released your last album, New Sunrise, in 2010. Any plans for a new album?

his teaching with its Service Above Self motto, and its famous 4-Way Test of fairness and

much higher for all automotive services,

A: I am writing new material once again,

ethics. When I was president in the late ‘90s,

whether it is our response time to interests

and a fifth CD is forthcoming. Folks can find all

we began our Kingdom for Kids outreach. I am

posted online, our ability to create a successful

my songs on iTunes.

buying and service experience, or even the fa-

Q: What inspires your original songs?

very happy and proud that 11 state-of-the-art playgrounds have been completed by Rotari-

cilities that greet our guests each day. Higher

A: It's funny, but I seem to be writing about

ans and community volunteers at inner city

standards are not only demanded and ex-

a guy who is always in trouble or looking to

schools, public libraries and at the Autism

pected, they are consistently met and many

apologize for something. Before I write a song,

Treatment Center. Future projects are sched-

times exceeded.

I find a melody on the guitar. I mumble some

uled for the Winston School and St. PJ’s Chil-

lyrics and then come back with a story to put

dren's Home.

Q: When did you become interested in music?

on paper.

I value the wonderful recognition that fel-

A: After I first saw the Beatles on the Ed

Q: As a cover band, you play a variety of

low Rotarians gave me last year with the Serv-

Sullivan Show back in 1964, my mother could-

music from country to vintage rock. What mu-

ice Above Self award presented by Rotary, and

n't get me to quit singing. When my dad

sical genres do you enjoy singing most, and

I was very proud to share honors with my dear

brought home the Beatles orange and yellow

what musicians have inspired you?

Capitol 45 record, we wore the grooves down

A: All genres inspire us. That makes it a lit-

listening to I Want to Hold Your Hand. I was too

tle more challenging for our band because we

friend and current president of Texas A&M San Antonio, Dr. Maria Ferrier, at the City Year Ripples of Hope Gala this year.

july/august 2013 |

49

W ROLE MODEL

CHARLIN SAM-YU MADELLIN Age: 31 Occupation: Manager, Hsiu Yu restaurant.

Personal: Married with an 11-year-old stepdaughter and a baby on the way.

Why she’s a Role Model: Took what she learned from her college business studies and other jobs to help her parents continue and enhance their family business.

Her own role models: “My mother grew up very poor and not well-educated, but was determined to make a better life for herself. She moved here, worked hard and from nothing, she built a successful story and business. I look up to her.” She also cites her older sister, Hope Morgan of McKinney, “who is also a strong woman, mother of two wonderful, well-mannered boys. She has been successful in all her careers, starting from the bottom and working her way up.”

Best advice ever given: From her mother — “Without hard work, you won’t get far; the amount of work you put in is the amount of happiness you’ll get back.”

Goals: “Being the best wife that I can be; taking on this business someday and making it even more successful, keeping our clientele by giving the best customer service and making my parents proud.”

Believes… “No matter what you choose and what mistakes you make, you can always change your life to make it better, and all those mistakes are life lessons you learn from.”

Dining favorites: Hsiu Yu’s kung pao chicken; sushi restaurants.

Favorite relaxation strategy: Watching TV (Grey’s Anatomy is her favorite), playing video games (God of War) and reading.

What she’s reading: Fresh off the Boat: A Memoir, by chef Eddie Huang; The Pregnancy Journal, by A. Christine Harris; and What to Expect when You’re Expecting,

by Heidi Murkoff and Sharon Mazel.

In the Family Tradition Charlin Sam-Yu Madellin follows her parents into restaurant business

I

By Paula Allen

Photography by Janet Rogers

f you’ve lived in San Antonio for more than a New York minute, you’ve

and Hsiu Yu, opened the restaurant, which specializes in Hunan- and

probably eaten at the tried-and-true Chinese restaurant on Broadway,

Szechuan-style dishes.

just inside Loop 410. And if you’re one of Hsiu Yu’s regulars of

As she grew, Madellin started helping out — refilling glasses with

decades’ standing, you’ve probably gotten acquainted with the family

water and tea, seating customers, bringing tickets for to-go orders to the

who established it in 1983 — including the owners’ daughter, Charlin Sam-

kitchen and, once she was 17, waiting on tables. Despite the glamour of

Yu Madellin, who has worked there as long as she can remember.

doing grown-up work at a young age, and the warm relationships with

When she says, “I grew up here,” during an interview at the restaurant,

repeat customers, life wasn’t always easy for the restaurateurs’ child. “I

she means it literally — not just in San Antonio but at the unassuming,

felt I never got to have fun because I was always at work,” she says. “For

comfort-Chinese eatery at 8338 Broadway. “I was running around here

safety reasons, my parents didn’t want me home alone, so I couldn’t play

when I was 2 years old,” she says. That was the year her parents, John

with my friends. Then, I felt let down. Now, I don’t regret anything.”

50 | sawoman.com

ROLE MODEL W

Charlin Sam-Yu Madellin and her mother, Hsiu Yu, confer on a matter of restaurant business. Charlin handles the firm’s technology.

Jr., a partner in a construction company, are expecting their first child together in February, “It’s easier to be more flexible about your hours, like for a doctor’s appointment, because family are more understanding.” At the same time, because it’s a family business, her coworkers “always expect everyone to give 110 percent.”

Although her parents have no immediate Madellin didn’t expect to work at the

later at a restaurant where they both worked.

plans to retire, she does expect to continue

restaurant after graduation from Churchill High

Her father, a culinary-school graduate, “always

working there, someday taking over for them.

School. She studied first at Texas A&M Univer-

wanted to open a restaurant of his own,” she

“That’s what we hope,” Madellin says, “that I’ll

sity, then at the University of Texas at San An-

says. “This was a realization of that dream.”

be ready to take the restaurant on from there.”

tonio, from which she earned a bachelor’s

The restaurant has remained successful

degree in business with a concentration in mar-

through new fashions in food and other chal-

be more efficient, demanding less time of its

keting in 2007. Along the way, she worked at

lenges “because we’re still providing the same

principals. “I’m different from my parents’ gen-

She is trying to streamline its procedures to

several big-box retailers, where she gravitated

things — good food, a friendly atmosphere and

eration,” she says. “I’m more free-spirited. I like

to customer service. “I’m a people person,” she

great customer service.” Although the restau-

to have more fun, and they don’t understand

says. “I’ve always liked dealing with the public.

rant has employed other staff, Madellin’s father

why I don’t want to work at the restaurant all

Retail businesses have different ways of deliv-

still runs the kitchen, her mother is in charge of

the time.”

ering customer service, and it was good for me

the front of the house, and she helps out wher-

Looking back on her experience of growing

to see that.”

ever needed. Two aunts have worked there, as

up in San Antonio and at the restaurant,

She first returned to work at the family business in 1998, when that year’s hundred-years

has her older sister, Hope Morgan of McKinney,

Madellin says, “Sometimes it was hard. San An-

who still pitches in whenever she’s in town.

tonio didn’t have many Asians, and I was usu-

flood caused enough damage to close the

Madellin has worked full time at the

ally the only Asian child in my class. Friends

restaurant for a few months. “My mom said,

restaurant since 2004. One of her special re-

would ask questions about our culture, but

‘We’re thinking about reopening’ and asked me,

sponsibilities has been to make it “more tech-

non-friends made fun of me.”

‘Do you think you could waitress?’” says

nology-friendly.” She saw to it that Hsiu Yu

Teasing “made me embarrassed to be

Madellin. “I knew everything — I could do pay-

got its own website, manages the restaurant’s

Asian,” she says. “Childhood can make you or

roll, pack take-out orders, wait on tables, help

Facebook page and posts updates and

break you, and that took a toll on me. In college

my mom with office stuff — so I said yes.” The

checks comments on Yelp, the review site.

and after, I learned to love being Asian and not

restaurant reopened cautiously with Madellin

She also enjoys eating out at all kinds of

be so hurt by the memories. I think it made me

and one of her aunts as the only two wait-

restaurants, comparing their service and scout-

a better, stronger person because I learned that

resses, while customers trickled back in, and

ing for new trends to add new items to Hsiu

all people are different and not to judge them

word-of-mouth spread that Hsiu Yu was back

Yu’s menu, including this summer’s strawberry

on that.”

in business.

lemonade, already a hit with customers. “I con-

If the restaurant’s succession plan goes as

Although she planned to become a phar-

sider bringing in new ideas part of my job,” she

expected, Madellin plans to enlist her own

maceutical sales representative after college

says. “My parents will consider just about any-

children’s help there. “It’s great that I was here

graduation, Madellin decided to stay with the

thing if it’s reasonable, but they’re more likely

in the business,” she says, “It taught me re-

restaurant. “My mom didn’t want me to leave,”

to think, ‘Why change, if it’s working?’”

sponsibility and helped build my character. All

she says, “and I respected their efforts to build

Working with close family members has its

in all, it was a good thing, it taught me a lot of

the business.” The Yus had emigrated sepa-

pros and cons. On the good side, especially

life lessons, and I’d like to pass those on to the

rately from Taiwan in 1971 and met seven years

now that she and her husband, Sergio Madellin

next generation.”

july/august 2013 |

51

W DINING

Talking Thai

Stuffed Bangkok Wings, on the menu at Sawasdee Thai Cuisine.

ENJOY THE SPICE AND EXOTIC FLAVORS

By Ron Bechtol

Photography Janet Rogers

An appropriate starter here might be the traditional shredded green papaya salad bathed in spicy lime juice and topped with chopped peanuts;

Thai was not the first cuisine to begin elbowing out Chinese as our

yes, salads can handle some heat. You may need to convince your unfail-

only Asian option; in San Antonio, at least, that distinction belongs to the

ingly courteous server to ratchet up the spice level on some dishes — as-

Vietnamese — with a sideways glance at Japan. (Think returning service-

suming you’ve convinced yourself. But the request will pay dividends with

men — and often their brides.) Korean and Indian still lag, though they’re

plates such as the green curry noodles with eggplant, basil, peppers and

gaining ground. But the number of Thai restaurants now actively engag-

coconut milk (your choice of protein). Angry Ocean, a stir-fried seafood

ing our attention seems to suggest an enduring affair with Tom Yung

combination, suggests spice, not attitude; added heat makes even tilapia

Goong and Pad Kee Mao — no, they’re not the Thai equivalent of Bolly-

taste good in a dish of ginger fish with sautéed ginger, crushed garlic,

wood stars.

mushrooms and peppers. (www.thaideesa.com).

Many of us were first seduced by the simplicity of peanut sauce on

Thai Chili, now in two locations, has been around since 2000, making

skewers of marinated chicken, only later graduating to the subtly sophis-

it more or less middle-aged in the spectrum of local Thai restaurants. Most

ticated soups and the complex curries of red, green and yellow. A good

often at Asian restaurants, the identity of the chef isn’t even known, never

place to kindle a new flame, or restart an old one, is Sawasdee Thai Cui-

mind prominent. But the garrulous Chai Ngamsomjam has made a name

sine, where at night, your skewers of chicken or pork satay may be

for both himself and his cuisine, first on Thousand Oaks (now in new quar-

brought to you by servers clad in silk. Beware the sweet plum sauce on

ters) and later at Stone Oak and Huebner.

otherwise worthy appetizers such as the polite but unique Lady Shrimps deep fried in rice paper and the stuffed Bangkok Wings.

We will start by counseling care when approaching the lunch buffet at the Stone Oak outlet; it has disappointed in the past. But we think that

But know that yellow curry here is Asian comfort food; its blend of

the Thai beef jerky, deep fried and topped with cilantro and jalapeños,

potato, carrots, onions and coconut milk seems especially suited to

should be tried. The traditional tod mun pla, fried fish cakes served with

chicken or pork. And the roasted duck red curry should not be shunned

red onion, cucumbers, peanuts and more jalapeños, are another good ap-

just because it’s presented in a pineapple shell; if you’re up to it, ask for

petizer possibility. But though the Thai chicken wings, marinated in soy,

this one spicy, as the pineapple will help blunt the heat. (www.sawas-

garlic and white pepper, are meaty and generous, we’re not quite sure

deesa.com).

Not far from Sawasdee is Thai Dee, a restaurant whose upfront BYOB

how they’re meant to be eaten; the serving of lettuce suggests a wrap, the bones in the wings imply otherwise. But regardless of small setbacks,

policy has made it a favorite of wine geeks bearing bottles of riesling or

we always come back to the supremely satisfying “old-style” pumpkin

gewürztraminer, two grapes that have a special affinity for spicy foods.

curry. A level six out of 10 is just hot enough, leading to a nine out of 10

52 | sawoman.com

DINING W Other Thai specialities are (clockwise, from upper left) roasted red duck curry served in a pineapple shell at Sawasdee Thai Cuisine, pumpkin curry and beef jerky that has been deep fried and topped with cilantro and jalapeños, both at Thai Chili Stone Oak.

ditional boost. We haven’t had the Tiger Cried lately, but as this traditional dish of sliced seared beef is served “with a madly hot sauce on the side,” it will be hard to resist next time.

We’re also eager to revisit the Panang curry, traditionally made with beef — and classically milder than many. It’s not all about the heat, though if you have indulged, purple rice pudding will help tame the tingle at meal’s end. (No direct website that I could find).

As do many proprietors of Asian restaurants, Bangkok Cuisine’s chef/owner Varaluck Kaowsan, grows her own Thai basil, lemon grass, Thai chilies and more, and the freshness is especially apparent in the dining room. For that reason, if tom kha gai, the famous chicken soup with coconut milk, kaffir lime leaves, galangal and a host of other herbs and spices, is still on your bucket list, have it here and be overall evaluation. (www.thaichili.net).

So far, we’ve been touting taking a little heat in most Thai dishes.

done with it. True, on a recent visit we weren’t thrilled with the cucumber salad, another dish that thrives on freshness,

Bangkok 54, on the other hand, comes with a fire-alarm warning: The

and attribute our indifference to a sweet and sour sauce that empha-

heat index here ranges from 0-6, with the highest being listed as 911. We

sized the latter. But we were ecstatic over two eggplant dishes. The (rel-

find level four to be personally challenging enough but feel duty-bound

atively) more mellow of the two consisted of slender purple eggplant

to order dishes “Thai-hot” regardless. Most rational people would find

stir fried with chicken, salted soybeans (keep looking; you’ll find them),

level three, or “American hot,” more than adequately incendiary. And a

basil and serrano peppers, and it was addictive. A dish of bracing green

dish such as soft shell crab with basil (it sounds deceptively simple)

curry with pork, golf ball-sized green eggplant (surprisingly crunchy),

doesn’t need a lot of added heat to shine, in any case. Though it’s a visual

basil and coconut milk kept us going back for more despite a challeng-

train wreck of sorts, this layering of soft shell crab with fried eggplant in

ing level of heat — one we had only ourselves to blame for. Ambiance

a boisterously chunky sauce is unexpectedly archaeological — one just

may not be Bangkok’s strong suit, though the pale green walls of yore

keeps uncovering new things.

Less demanding, but equally satisfying, is 54’s mussaman curry with

are gone, but service and attention to detail more than compensate.

(Facebook.com/Bangkok Cuisine).

more of those ubiquitous potatoes and peanuts; a dish of drunken noo-

Siam Cuisine, a restaurant we wish were nearer to us, is unique in many

dles is nonetheless rewarding for being vegetarian. The tongue can be

ways: They supply a helpful glossary of Thai terms (moo, despite what

given a rest at the front end of your experience with the mellow kanom

you might automatically think, means pork); and though you might need

jeep steamed dumplings in brown butter sauce, or at meal’s end with the

to round up a posse to experience them properly, there are three set

unusual dessert that is taro custard with sweet rice in coconut cream. Both

menus emphasizing Thailand’s regional cuisines — northern, Bangkok

reflect 54’s slightly different take on Thai as well as its more-sophisticated-

(central) and southern. The diligent diner can suss out some of these spe-

than-most décor. (www.bangkok54restaurant.com/sanantonio).

cialties on his or her own, the especially good green papaya salad, from

Oddly, for a city that has no Asian neighborhood, three of the city’s

the north, being one of them. Other dishes worth exploring include the

best Thai restaurants are to be found on the I-35 corridor east of town.

gaeng massaman, which is said to betray a Middle Eastern influence with

Thai Spice, located in The Forum, may have been the first, and it has been

its incorporation of cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and cumin into the tradi-

typical of Asian restaurants in many ways — family members (mostly

tional pantheon of tamarind, coconut milk, peanuts, and potatoes.

women in this case) immigrate to the kitchens of established restaurants,

Deep-fried chicken wings stuffed with ground pork and crystal noo-

keeping the cuisine at once fresh and grounded in home-country tradition.

dles are worth a look-see, too, as is the northern fried rice with house-

We aren’t especially fond of the fried spring rolls here — or much of any-

made fermented Thai sausage, eggs, and onions. We also suggest the

where else, for that matter— but find TS’s take on the equally ubiquitous

houy tod, battered and deep-fried mussels (huoy is defined simply as

pad Thai (it’s wrapped in a sheet of fried egg) to be a breath of fresh air.

shellfish) with bean sprouts, green onion and egg; they’re as unique as

The obligatory fish cakes, which can be rubbery in the wrong hands,

the unusually pleasant interior in beige and bamboo tones. All that culi-

are masterful too, with the accompanying condiments giving them an ad-

nary heat sometimes wants a serene environment as a backdrop.

july/august 2013 |

53

W AROUND TOWN

Tenchita Flores, Lisa Blonkvist and Beverly Pace chat with Laura Labatt and Mary Denny at the Friends of Hospice Annual Spring Meeting and Party.

Linda Whitacre and Beverly Purcell-Guerra greet Patty Hayes, Beverly Pace and LouAnn Noll at the Annual Spring Meeting and Party hosted by Friends of Hospice.

Judy Hart and Vanessa Fierro celebrate with Marsha Schendel, Ingrid Clark and Harriet Smith at the Panhellenic Association of San Antonio Derby Day Luncheon.

Megan Harrison and Kristen Starry greet Marsha Schendel and Barbara Habiger at the Derby Day Scholarship Luncheon hosted by the San Antonio Panhellenic Association.

54 | sawoman.com

WINE W

A Memorable

ates a stylish wine that seems part New

Wine Dinner

over multiple days. Chef Isaac combined

World and part Old World.

The duck paté was carefully prepared both a fine and a coarse duck, delicately folding them into cream, poaching the mixture for about 25 minutes and refrigerating overnight. Just before serving, chef Isaac

PERFECTLY PAIRED VARIETALS AND FOOD

BY DENISE EASDON

seared it to bring out the salt. Duck is one of the all-time great pinot noir pairings, and

The Texas way of celebrating food and

played beautifully with the first two wines, a

wine can be found in the heart of Texas just

tacit approach that was unexpected and rel-

outside San Antonio. A recent evening with

ished beyond delight.

this one did not disappoint.

The special attributes of the Luca pinot noir are a result of hand harvesting, with only the grapes of perfect ripeness selected.

chef Isaac Cantu of Cordillera Ranch and

The first course, with several layers of

Mariano Canal of Luca wines from Men-

complexity, included a caramelized diver

The vineyard is planted in a cool climate at

doza, Argentina, came together as if the

scallop served on a duck paté with foie

a 4,710-foot elevation, with an average vine

symbiotic similarities of the two were

gras vinaigrette. Chef Isaac was able to

age of 16 years. The wine is then aged 12

meant to be together: the relaxed freedom

transform and complement this dish, pick-

months in French oak barrels. With a dis-

of wide-open spaces, wild game roaming

ing up on the characteristics of the

tinctive garnet hue, the wine has aromas of

freely and grilled meats with hearty red

chardonnay and representing those pre-

wild strawberries, saddle leather and a cola

wine. It was a well-orchestrated pairing of

cise flavors and textures where reflected

root. On the palate there are notes of cherry,

creative and awe-inspiring dishes that ex-

in the dish. The technique keys into the

raspberry spice and leather. It has a formi-

ploded with flavor when paired with the el-

chef’s use of a rich and savory sweet scal-

dable and velvety texture with a boundless

egant wines of Luca.

lop, caramelizing it to complement the

finish, receiving a 93-point score from

Nothing could be better than making

French oak component of the wine. The

Robert Parker. The flavors and weight of this

new friends while sharing an extraordinarily

rich and full-bodied chardonnay proposes

wine paired irrefutably with the duck paté.

paired dinner, and the evening with chef

a beautiful pale-gold color with enticing

The second course included a fennel-

Isaac and Luca Winery was no exception.

aromas of lemon crème, baking spices

crusted lamb carpaccio with savory lemon

The evening began with two Luca wines

and notes of dulce de leche. The aromas

quinoa and chimichurri. While some food

— the chardonnay and the pinot noir — al-

sashay effortlessly across the palate and

and wine matches surprise or are tied to

ready poured at the table prior to seating.

are joined by tropical fruits, spiced baked

specific ingredients, others are a clear-cut

The first two courses of the evening inter-

pear and a stony mineral flavor that cre-

and direct match — the lamb, of course,

july/august 2013 |

55

W WINE being the obvious complement to the pinot noir and the lemon quinoa with its texture and tropical fruit component marrying beautifully with the tropical fruits of the chardonnay.

In keeping with his Argentine inspirations, chef Isaac’s third course was a bountiful and quintessential Hill Country riff on hearty wild game. A wildmushroom-crusted venison loin (imported red deer) with carrot confit and smoked parsnip butter paired with the 2010 Luca malbec. Numerous elements brought this pairing together, including the texture and charring of the venison, the multiple species of mushrooms and the smoky component of the creamy parsnip butter. The Luca malbec was showing beautifully, rich with New World fruit and an abundant structure to stand up to the hearty meat course. This malbec was still quite youthful, with plenty of tannic structure and a rich, dense core of black cherry and currant fruit. The aromas were complex and alluring, offering notes of tobacco, licorice and new leather, foreshadowing the maturity to come. It is sourced from old vines (average age, 46 years) with 16 months of aging in French oak.

The wine was a match for the sweet, earthy flavors of the lightly charred medium-rare venison accompanied by varied wild mushrooms and smoky parsnip butter. The current vintage 2010 received a 93-point score from Robert Parker and 91 points from Stephen Tanzer’s International Wine Cellar.

It was the final course that elevated the food and wine experience to a sensational new level. The dessert course is often the most difficult, as most are very simple and stay the course of a traditional chocolate cake with a red wine or port, or a creme brulee paired with sauternes. Chef Isaac finalized our evening with his rousing pistachio semifreddo dish paired with the Luca syrah Laborde Double Select 2010. This dessert with tart cherries was a complex dish with numerous ingredients. The semifreddo (pronounced semi-fraw-doe) had a gelatinous texture that combined whipping cream and a light meringue touched with almond extract and pistachios. It sat on top of a thin chocolate cinnamon cake, the plate drizzled with cajeta (a salted caramel) and a cherry port reduction glaze.

To better understand why the match works, start with the basics of what the dish includes: cherries, port glaze reduction, caramel, cinnamon spice, almond extract and chocolate. Then consider the flavors of the wine — red fruit, black cherries, chocolate, hints of vanilla and spice. As with most food and wine pairings, the syrah starts out with specific flavor profiles of red and black fruits with a hint of tobacco and earthiness, then transitions to a completely different wine that includes flavors of leather, rich black fruits, dark chocolate, bitter tea leaves, coffee and an increased level of tannin. It’s a wine that is a Triple Crown winner with three 90++ point scores that include a 92 points Parker, 91 points Wine Spectator, and a 90 points Wine Enthusiast.

The dinner was memorable and the wines spectacular. The Luca winery is a family- owned small-production winery with fewer than 10,000 cases of these varietals produced (800 cases of the chardonnay, 1,000 cases of the pinot noir, 2,000 of the syrah and 3,500 of the malbec). The Catena family is one of the oldest and most famous winemaking families in Argentina with the irreverent and highly regarded Laura Catena as the winemaker/owner of Luca Wines.

As for chef Isaac, he is a chef to watch, as he will undoubtedly rise quickly to an unparalleled status, hopefully to stay in the San Antonio area as one of our premier chefs.

Although Cordillera is a private club, great chefs abound throughout San Antonio and can work at offsite locations with a sommelier to create a memorable evening at a destination of your choice.

Create some magic, and plan your next food and wine extravaganza with a personal chef and sommelier to guide you.

Denise Easdon is a certified sommelier and a certified specialist of wine.

56 | sawoman.com

BEAUTY W

Hello

Sunshine I've Got Me Covered

By Anne Moore

W

e're in a fight. For our sun-damaged skin and many times for our lives. Maybe skin

cancer hasn't touched your family yet, but research shows that one out of five people

will be affected. That's why we're urged by dermatologists and physicians to use a sunscreen.

Well, I use the sunless tanning bed, you

ening. Melanoma travels to other organs.

increases a person's risk of melanoma by 20

might smugly reply. Unfortunately, it is still hard

The National Cancer Institute reports

percent. People who begin indoor tanning

to convince the 1 million Americans who use

melanoma cases have “skyrocketed among

under the age of 35 increase their melanoma

these beds they must stop. Seventy percent of

older adults for decades,” but melanoma has

risk by 75 percent!

these users are women, ages 16 to 29. Ever try

increased at a faster rate among Caucasian

NOTE; It takes just five sunburns over the

to tell a college student who wants to take the

women who were born after 1960. Further,

course of a lifetime to double your risk of

easy way to get a good-looking tan that this is

more and more advanced cases are being

melanoma, but fast action will lessen long-

also the faster route to cancer and aging skin?

found in women. The report points out that

term damage.

Sure, these tans can give you instant grat-

surveys show increased prevalence of sunburn

ification. And who doesn't look healthy with

and of days spent at the beach and the accom-

SO SLATHER ON THE SUNSCREEN. It's a

glowing, tanned skin in the summer? These

panying ultraviolet radiation (UVR) are the pri-

no-brainer to figure out that (a) we must pro-

young people refuse to buy into the fact that

mary environmental cause of melanoma.

tect ourselves from the sun's damaging rays,

they'll pay for this temporary “fix” later in life.

The report continues, “Similarly, tanning

and (b) we must stop using tanning beds. We

Even benign squamous cancer cells can be

bed usage, recently found to be a probable

must use a sunscreen containing 30 percent

disfiguring. Of course, if melanoma cells — the

cause of melanoma, has been rapidly increas-

SPF, the sunscreen must be “broad spectrum”

deadliest form of skin cancer — develop, your

ing among young women.” One source re-

to protect from both UVA and UVB rays, and

past days of fun in the sun become life-threat-

vealed just one session in the tanning bed

we should wear a hat and long sleeves when

july/august 2013 |

57

W BEAUTY

SOME SIGNS OF SUN-DAMAGED SKIN ARE: • DRY, ROUGH, LEATHERY-LOOKING SKIN • BROKEN CAPILLARIES • WRINKLES • BROWN SPOTS, FRECKLES, DISCOLORATIONS OF THE SKIN • DRY, SCALY SPOTS (SOLAR KERATOSES)

possible while in the sun. The big news: Re-

NOTE: It is the responsibility of parents

search has proved that wearing sunscreen

and coaches to be aware of and to make chil-

every day, whether directly in the sun or not,

dren and athletes aware of the importance of

can slow or even prevent the development

using sunscreen products when playing or

of wrinkles and sagging! This study, con-

practicing outdoors.

ducted in Australia for 4.5 years, is the first to prove the use of sunscreen of at least 15

SOME DAILY SUN SAFETY HABITS FROM

percent SPF all the time can alter a pattern

THE SKIN CANCER FOUNDATION:

of what would be the inevitable photo-aging progression.

The study participants using the sunscreen every day had “noticeably more resilient and smoother skin than those (other half of the study) told to continue the practice of using sunscreen sometimes.” The sunscreen group “experienced much less skin aging than the other group.” It's like a fountain of youth, and it appears it's never too late to start.

• Seek the shade, especially between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

• Do not burn.

• Avoid tanning booths/beds.

• Cover up with clothing, a broadbrimmed hat and UV-blocking sunglasses.

• Use a sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or higher every day.

• Apply 1 ounce (2 tablespoons or a shot glass full) of sunscreen to your entire body

More rules of sunscreen use and protec-

30 minutes before going outside. Reapply

tion: 1. It must be applied thoroughly, thickly,

every two hours or after swimming or exces-

and reapplied every few hours if it's washed

sive sweating. Why not set your phone alarm

or sweated off, and 2. The use of cosmetic

to remind you?

products which tout a certain percent of sun-

• Keep newborns out of the sun. Use sun-

screen protection does NOT replace an ac-

screens on babies over the age of six months.

tual sunscreen product.

• Examine your skin, head to toe, every month.

BEWARE OF SUNSCREEN LABELING. The Food and Drug Administration has is-

• See your doctor every year for a professional skin exam.

sued new labeling rules to counteract certain misleading terminology regarding sunscreen

HERE ARE A FEW MORE TIPS FROM OTHER

protection. Words like “waterproof” and

SOURCES (AND COMMON SENSE):

“sunblock” should now read ”water resistant” and further instruct that the product should be reapplied every 40 or 80 minutes. None

• Apply

sunscreen,

using

a

wedge

will totally block out the sun. Those under

sponge, to your hairline and other areas

SPF 15 must warn that they don't protect

where your scalp is exposed.

against wrinkles or skin cancer. “Broad spectrum” products, those that offer protection from UVB and UVA rays, now must pass a test to prove the claim.

58 | sawoman.com

• Apply your sunscreen up to your hairline, on your ears and NOT on your eyelids.

• Apply to your naked body to avoid strap or bra marks.

• A spray-on sunscreen is handy, but not if it's windy!

ROLE MODEL W

july/august 2013 |

59

W BEAUTY

A less expensive sunscreen will be used more often and in larger amounts, so you don't have to buy the expensive stuff (which you'll

INDOOR LIGHTING ALERT

probably use less of for the same reasons).

• Toss sunscreen after a year — use a

Compact fluorescent light (CFL), the

marker and date if needed.

coiled, energy-saving bulbs, emit enough

• Avoid combining sunscreen products

UV radiation to damage skin cells and with bug repellent, makeup, etc.

cause discoloration. For basic skin safety,

• Remember your feet — burying them in

stay several feet from the bulbs, or buy

the sand will rub off the sunscreen.

• Hydrate! With water. Alcohol, some

ones that come enclosed in a glass cover.

medications and certain illnesses can in-

You're advised to wear sunscreen to the office, if you're exposed to

crease your susceptibility to becoming dehydrated.

Examples

include

ibuprofen,

CFL ceiling bulbs all day. Of course, this warning falls right into the rest of the advice in this article ... wear sunscreen every day. Period.

antibiotics, tar in dandruff shampoos and perfumes or essential oils.

JUMP IN THE “SELF-TANNER” PARADE Tanning should come from a tube, bottle,

of body lotion on knees, elbows and ankles so they don't turn dark or orangey.

Remember, that sneaky sun can get to us through our clothes and car windows and

spray can, towelette or brush-on bronzer.

• Apply your self-tanner, starting at your

ways we can't even imagine. The best solu-

Here's how to get ready for applying your

feet and working your way up, saving your

tion: A cultural shift away from the desire to

choice of self-tanning product:

arms for last.

be tan. Role models should show great skin in

• Wax, shave, mani-pedi, color hair and exfoliate from head to toe.

• Dry off thoroughly. Pat a small amount

60 | sawoman.com

• Dry longer than directions say, then brush talc-free baby powder all over to stop the tanner from getting on your clothes.

their own natural color. We must learn to feel good in our own skins.

With our sunscreen on, of course.

W HEALTH MATTERS

INTEGRATIVE MEDICINE IS NOT “ALTERNATIVE” MEDICINE. Dr. Andrew Weil, a leading proponent of integrative medicine worldwide, wants us all to understand the difference between integrative medicine and “alternative” medicine.

Alternative therapy is usually used as a replacement for conventional medicine. Treatments are usually closer to nature, cheaper and less invasive. The term covers a wide-range of therapies, some of which are scientifically validated — and a cautionary note — some are not.

Alternative medicine practices used in conjunction with conventional medical practices are known as “complementary” medicine. These two practices, used together, are sometimes referred to by the acronym CAM. Integrative medicine is defined by the National Center for

Integrative Medicine:

Complementary and Alternative Medicine at the National Insti-

What it is.What it’s not.

itation, nutritional science, massage therapy and so forth in

By Anne Moore

tutes of Health as “combining mainstream medical therapies and CAM therapies for which there is some high-quality scientific evidence of safety and effectiveness.” So integrative medicine incorporates the very best of the scientifically validated therapies from both the conventional and the CAM systems.

Some examples include the use of acupuncture, yoga, med-

conjunction with conventional treatment of heart disease, stress, cancer and other serious illnesses when scientific evidence supports this type of treatment for health and healing.

W

hat is integrative medicine? It is caring for the

Coordination between the physician and the therapist is critical.

whole human being, including the body, mind

and spirit, not just bones and organs and skin. Ap-

propriate therapeutic approaches and disciplines are used by health care professionals for optimal health and healing.

BAD NEWS. GOOD NEWS. The bad news is that in a 1993 study, it was found that one in three Americans had used an alternative therapy, often without their doctor's knowledge. Another study found that saw

The ultimate goal is to combine state-of-the-art “conventional” medical treatments with other carefully selected therapies proven to be effective and safe.

palmetto did NOT improve benign prostate hyperplasis, a noncancerous enlargement of the prostate gland. Yet more than 2 million men in the United States take saw palmetto as an alter-

Conventional medicine is based on treatment of disease

native to drugs. This then was a bad news/good news situation

or other physical problems diagnosed and treated by a med-

— the supplement wasn't successful in treating prostate en-

ical doctor, using drugs or surgery, lab work and other med-

largement, but its use proved beyond doubt that the supplement wasn't effective.

ical tests or machinery. Basically, it’s the type of medicine The good news is the philosophy of integrative medicine is

most of us know, practiced at a medical doctor's office, clinic or hospital.

Integrative medicine is based on overall health and well-

being supported by scientific studies, and this “sophisticated biology” is causing more and more physicians to understand and believe in the connection of mind-body-brain to the im-

ness. To treat the whole person, development of a good pa-

mune system. With the holistic approach of integrative medi-

tient-practitioner relationship is critical in determining the

cine becoming more popular, many medical schools are

nonphysical factors — psychosocial, spiritual — in tandem

incorporating treatment options in health centers. They're being taught to think in an integrated way. Several schools

with the physical factors that affect our health and wellness,

have formed a Consortium of Academic Health Centers for In-

whether from diseases or other traumas to our bodies,

tegrative Medicine, including Duke, Harvard, Columbia, George-

minds, spirits and community.

town and the University of Pennsylvania.

62 | sawoman.com

DOLLARS & SENSE W

july/august 2013 |

63

W HEALTH MATTERS

POPULARITY IS INCREASING. WHY? In the past decade, integrative medical centers have opened up all over the United States.

Our hospitals offering complementary therapies have more than doubled, and another 24 percent said they plan to add more of this type of service.

People want to be considered as human beings. They are deeply dissatisfied with the present health care system — rushed, with overwhelmed doctors and the feeling that they're nothing more than a disease or a broSome medical schools have added courses

yoga teacher or massage therapist.

ken something. Integrative medicine seems to

on nontraditional therapies. At the University

Although not all doctors are participating,

of California, San Francisco, medical students

research is starting to find more and more

more global approach to healing and health. It

can augment their courses in infectious dis-

empirical proof to help them get over the no-

is customized to fit your needs. Some like the

offer more time, more attention and a broader,

ease and immunology with electives like

tion that integrative medicine does not just

idea of their medical treatment also reflecting

Herbs and Dietary Supplements or Massage

“blindly advocate for alternative approaches

their values, beliefs and philosophies about

and Meditation. They also have an option to

and reject conventional methods.” They’re ad-

health and life in general.

study as exchange students at the American

justing to the fact that integrative medicine

How do you get started in integrative med-

College of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Now

doesn't make promises it can't keep. One of

icine? Most of the time, you'll be referred by a

you can easily find a Western-trained doctor

their concerns is that patients may be taking

physician. Just ask him or her about this type

who also has credentials in acupuncture or

herbs that may be harmful or will interfere

of treatment. Kay Spears, of the Balanced

hypnosis or a registered nurse who is also a

with prescription drugs.

Health Healing Center on Blanco Road, says

64 | sawoman.com

HEALTH MATTERS W

that word-of-mouth or a doctor's referral is how most of their patients find them. She says upon arrival, patients are interviewed by a li-

Now you can easily find a Western-trained doctor who also has credentials in acupuncture or

censed therapist about their area of concern.

hypnosis or a registered nurse If the therapist in that specialty, such as a psychotherapist, realizes the need for one of the

who is also a yoga teacher or

other professionals, such as a trauma specialist

massage therapist.

or nutritionist or for a physician, they will not hesitate to tell the patient. Lab work will probably be done to further assess the situation.

Fees and other charges vary. Many are not covered by insurance, with the exception of

Some of the health problems they ad-

some lab or other tests. Ask your insurance

dress are post-traumatic stress disorder, di-

company about coverage and your practi-

abetes, chronic fatigue, depression/anxiety,

tioner about payment plans. Some practition-

allergies, hormone restoration and autoim-

ers will file papers for you to recuperate your

mune disorders.

For recommendations other than referrals

expenses, even if they don't take insurance for initial payment. You might call ahead and ask

from your doctor, ask friends, family mem-

about acceptance of insurance, what's cov-

bers, coworkers and others you respect.

ered by insurance and what's not, and be sure

There are practitioners in a whole array of

to ask specifically about Medicare and Medi-

specialties. Ask about their training and ex-

caid, if applicable.

perience. Look for someone who believes in

Do be aware that there are dangerous ther-

integrative medicine’s mind-body-spirit-com-

apies around. The true goal of those practicing

munity philosophy and is willing to work with

integrative medicine is the best care for your

conventional medical physicians. Search “in-

mind, body, spirit and community. It might just

tegrative medicine� online.

be your key to improved health and longevity.

july/august 2013 |

65

66 | sawoman.com

2013

Glenda Dawson Donate Life Texas Registry • www.donatelifetexas.org • www.donevidatexas.org

W EDITOR

68 | sawoman.com

“Where there is great love there are always miracles.”

— Willa Cather

The Texas Organ Sharing Alliance (TOSA) mission is “Saving Lives by Optimizing Organ Donation.”

Dear Central and South Texas Communities,

GOVERNING BOARD Vince Speeg, MD, Chair

The challenge facing TOSA is the ever-increasing list

Charles P. Andrews, MD, CPI

of children and adults being added to the national

Glenn Halff, MD

waiting list for a life-saving organ transplant — every

Michael Horton, PharmD

11 minutes a new name is added. Across the United

Bruce Mitchell

States, in the state of Texas and within our service

Jerry Morrisey, PhD

area, donation and transplantation centers are in the

Beverly Purcell-Guerra

midst of a difficult situation — to meet the community’s demand for life-saving transplantable organs.

Daniel Stanton Ken Washburn, MD Anne Williams

There is an opportunity to change the direction of the donation and transplantation trends — but it will not be easy. It begins with mobilizing our citizens to act together as a community for the common good of saving lives.

The first step is to become informed about why there is a critical need for donated organs. The second step is to be proactive to decrease the rate at which people are being added to the list. For example, there are more than 11,500 Texans waiting for their “Gift of Life.” Of those, 80 percent (over 9,000) are waiting for a donated kidney due to diabetes and high blood pressure health issues, which may have been a result of an unhealthy lifestyle. We must begin living a healthier life if these numbers are to decrease. In addition, creating a donor-friendly community by sharing your donation wishes with your family and becoming a registered donor (www.donatelifetexas.org) will increase the number of life-saving transplants.

The following pages are dedicated to highlight TOSA’s role in the community, answer the most commonly asked questions, address myths and misconceptions and provide information on the necessary steps to become a registered donor. Thank you in advance for your commitment to the cause of saving lives. Should you have any questions about how you can make a difference, contact Esmeralda “Mela” Perez, director of public relations, at (210) 618-5052 or by e-mail at mperez@txorgansharing.org.

Sincerely,

Patrick J. Giordano, MHA, FACHE Chief Executive Officer

For more information and resources, please call 1-866-685-0277.

3

Transplants: The Numbers Don’t Lie TEXAS

NATIONAL

11,574

118,145

Approximate number of Texans on the national transplant waiting list

Approximate number of people on the national transplant waiting list

*As reported by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) on May 30, 2013. For a daily update visit www.unos.org.

It’s hard to believe that every 11 minutes a new name is added to the national life-saving organ transplant waiting list.

What is more startling to believe is 18 people will die today because of the shortage of donated organs.

Median time for a life-saving organ transplant and the number of people in Texas waiting for specific organ donation:

Lung 141 days 187 Texans

Kidney 1,219 days 9,251 Texans

Pancreas 260 days 52 Texans

Heart 113 days 426 Texans

Kidney/Pancreas 448 days 138 Texans Intestine 159 days 1 Texan Liver 361 days 1,777 Texans

4

Adults and children wait for weeks, months... even years until a transplantable organ becomes available. The need for donated organs far exceeds the supply.

A Special Section from San Antonio Woman

Organ, Eye and Tissue Donation You Make the Difference Who is the Texas Organ

sometimes feel conflicted by

Sharing Alliance?

not knowing what their loved

The Texas Organ Sharing Al-

one

liance (TOSA) is one of only 58

When a donor designation is

nonprofit 501(c)(3) independ-

available, the donor’s wishes

ent, federally designated Organ

can be honored, removing the

Procurement

Organizations

burden of the decision from

(OPOs) in the United States

family. Families often draw

would

have

wanted.

dedicated to educating and

comfort and reassurance from

providing organ donation and

having this knowledge. Over

recovery services to families

97 percent of donor registra-

wishing to donate and to those

tions come directly from the

waiting for life-saving organ

DPS. A simple “yes” to the do-

transplants. Founded in 1975,

nation question from a DPS ex-

TOSA serves 56 counties in

aminer could be the one that

Central and South Texas.

saves lives.

Since the DDC

launched in 2006, such partThe National Initiative In 2006, Donate Life America launched the Donor Designation Collaborative (DDC) to share best practices and focus on creating high-functioning registries to dramatically increase the number of designated donors in the United

Do you have a heart... on your driver’s license or ID?

States. Each state formed a

nerships have contributed to a 50-percent increase in designated donors nationwide.

Making an informed decision…

Making the decision to become a registered organ, eye and tissue donor is not easy for some people. Donor education is the

team of partners committed to

vehicle to our community’s un-

making this happen. The initiative played an important role in forging

derstanding about the critical shortage and need for donors.

and strengthening partnerships with the Department of Public Safety (DPS) nationwide.

As the organization federally designated to serve Central and South Texas, TOSA is committed to conducting donation-related activities.

Why the need?

Through these coordinated activities related to public education about

As of May 31, 2013, over 118,145 men, women and children were

the benefits of donation, we increase donor awareness and the number

waiting for life-saving organ transplants in the United States. Over

of people registered on the Glenda Dawson Donate Life Texas Registry.

11,574 are in need in the State of Texas, with an estimated 5,008 liv-

Visit www.donatelifetexas.org or www.donevidatexas.org.

ing in Central and South Texas. Because there is a critical shortage of organs to meet this need, 18 people will die today from not having

Included on these pages are special stories of lives that have been

received one in time, amounting to thousands of lives lost each year.

touched by donation, illustrating the profound impact that one individual has on the donation process. And on the pages to follow, you

Why does becoming a registered donor matter?

6

will find facts, frequently asked questions, myths and misconceptions

Many families don’t discuss the idea of donation prior to death.

and resource links to assist our community in creating a donation-

When there is no license/ID donor designation, grieving families

friendly society.

A Special Section from San Antonio Woman

Living & Giving Stories

Bonnie Kwan Sister Michele O’Brien

Heart Recipient and Dr. Michael Kwan

Dr. Vince Speeg, Governing Board Member, and Sister Michele O’Brien, Liver Transplant Recipient

Gloria Arredondo Donor Mom of Timothy Eleven year-old Timothy became an organ donor as a result of a hit-and-run accident. Through the donation of his organs he saved four lives.

Gloria and Joe, the parents of Timothy, have spoken with Jennifer, Timothy's heart recipient.

Timothy's older brother, Mateo, had the pleasure of meeting Jennifer and her family this past year. As a donor family, they speak as a testament that after every attempt to save his life was

Zackry Baza Small Bowel, Pancreas and Liver Recipient

made and when death occurred, organ donation is about giving others a second chance at life — the "Gift of Life."

Fleming Mitchell Heart Recipient In March of 2004, Fleming had a massive heart attack. Soon after, he was placed on the national waiting list for a heart transplant. During the waiting period, he wondered if he would get a second chance at life. After waiting for more than a year for a life-saving heart transplant, his new donated heart arrived. On the way to the hospital, the ambulance carrying Fleming's new heart was involved in an accident. The medical personnel had to physically run to the hospital with the new heart and arrive just in time for the heart to be transplanted. Today, Fleming is very active advocating for organ donation, playing golf and enjoying life to the fullest. He says, "I thank God every day for the family who believed in donating life to someone like me who was facing death. This experience has changed my outlook on life and given me a better understanding and appreciation for the love of humanity."

For more information and resources, please call 1-866-685-0277.

7

How You Can Help: Programs and Resources Contact: Esmeralda “Mela” Perez, director of public relations , Texas

public about spe-

Organ Sharing Alliance, mperez@txorgansharing.org, 1-866-685-0277.

cific activities as well as education

The Workplace Partnership for Life (WPPL): A national ini-

about donation.

tiative created in 2001, unites the U.S. Department of Health and

LCD

Human Services (HHS) with the organ, eye and tissue donation com-

also offer the op-

munity, businesses, organizations and associations to encourage the

portunity to show

American public to become registered donors. This nationwide net-

short clips of per-

monitors

work of more than 11,000 “Partners” includes local, regional and

sonal testimonials

national companies, associations, unions and academic, volunteer,

and facts about

philanthropic and community-focused organizations of all kinds.

donation.

Their shared goal is promoting a “donation-friendly America” by fostering donation education and creating opportunities for individuals

Volunteer

to sign up to save lives through organ, eye and tissue donation.

Tabling: Volun-

www.organdonor.gov/workplace.

teer tables in the

National Donation Campus Challenge: The campaign launched

a great resource

in 2009 brings together organ, eye and tissue donation organizations

for the public to

on the critical need for organ, eye and tissue donors and to increase

receive

donor registration. www.organdonor.gov/workplacechallenge.asp.

tion and ask spe-

community can be

cific

informaquestions

Decision Donation: A school program that gives the gift of life:

about donation. In

Decision Donation proves a multifaceted set of materials — print,

some cases, the

video, CD-ROM and Web-based — that teachers throughout the

public may have

country can use in a variety of subject areas to educate students and

the opportunity to

encourage them to consider organ, eye and tissue donation.

meet a recipient

www.organdonor.gov/student/materials.asp.

or donor family member who has

Friends for Life: The value of giving back: Men, women and chil-

directly benefited

dren on the national waiting list continue to be inspired by what is

from donation.

Gabriel Espinosa, Donor Dad of Jeremy, sharing his personal story at Bucky's Block Party

being done by individuals, communities and the donation and transplant centers to build enough to give of their time to make a differ-

Employee Newsletters: The business community is encouraged

ence in their community. Yet more volunteers are needed to teach

to insert thank you testimonials from recipients and donor families, a

others what more can be done in our home, workplace, place of

calendar of community events and stories of employees who have

worship and community to save lives. For more information about

been personally touched by donation into their employee newsletters.

becoming a Friends for Life volunteer, call TOSA Donor Family and Volunteer Services at (210) 614-7030 or toll free at 1-866-685-0277.

Online Registration: Though most donor registrations occur

www.txorgansharing.org.

within DPS field offices, online portals now play an essential role because they enable customers to register online in between regis-

Customer Access to Educational Materials: Posters,

tration and renewal cycles. TOSA has specific social networking

brochures and testimonial CDs can be good resources to help the pub-

pages on Facebook and Twitter to help reach these audiences.

lic make an educated, informed decision about donation. While there

www.SAVE8.org.

are numerous community outreach initiatives to educate the general public, public knowledge could still be improved.

Onsite Dollar Contribution: In addition to “making the ask” about donation, many DPSs ask customers if they would like to con-

Multimedia Education: Businesses are encouraged to in8

tribute a dollar to benefit a state organ, eye and tissue trust fund.

corporate messages as a screensaver on picture preview mon-

Such requests have yielded thousands of dollars annually to fund ed-

itors, scrolling marquee screens or LCD monitors to inform the

ucational outreach programs to educate the public about donation.

A Special Section from San Antonio Woman

EDITOR W

july/august 2013 |

75

Frequently Asked Questions Who can become a donor?

All individuals can indicate their consent to donate (persons under 18 years of age must have parent’s or guardian’s consent). Medical suitability for donation is determined at the time of death.

How do I express my wishes to become an organ, eye and tissue donor?

Indicate your decision to be an organ, eye and tissue donor on your driver’s license/state ID or visit www.donatelifetexas.org or www.donevidatexas.org. Most importantly, discuss your decision with family members and loved ones.

Are there age limits for donors?

Everyone, regardless of age or medical history, should consider him/herself a potential donor. Persons younger than 18 years of age must have a parent or guardian’s consent.

If I put the donor designation on my driver’s license, will my wishes be carried out?

The majority of states in the U.S. honor “first person consent,” meaning that if you qualified to be a donor upon your passing, your wishes will be honored first and foremost and cannot be revoked by any third party. However, it is always good to let your family know that donation is important to you.

How many people are currently waiting for a transplant?

As of May 2013, there were over 118,145 men, women and children waiting for a transplant in the U.S. Approximately 300 new transplant candidates are added to the waiting list each month. For additional data, visit the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network Website: www.optn.org.

What can be donated?

Organs: heart, kidneys, pancreas, lungs, liver and intestines. Tissue: cornea, skin, bone marrow, heart valves and connective tissue.

Is the DPS registry associated with living donation?

No. All DPS registries are for deceased donation only. If you wish to be a living donor to someone in need, you will need to make arrangements at the recipient’s transplant center. You can contact the National Kidney Foundation at www.kidney.org for more information.

Are there any costs to my family for donation?

The donor’s family does not pay for the cost of organ and tissue donation. All costs related to donation of organs, eyes and tissue are paid by the recipient, usually through insurance, Medicare or Medicaid. Funeral expenses remain the responsibility of the family.

Can I sell my organs?

No. The National Organ Transplant Act (Public Law 98-507) makes it illegal to sell human organs, eyes and tissue in the United States. Violators are subject to fines and imprisonment. Among the reasons for this rule is the concern of Congress that buying and selling of organs might lead to inequitable access to donor organs with the wealthy having an unfair advantage.

How are organs distributed?

Patients are matched to organs based on a number of factors, including blood and tissue typing, medical urgency, time on the waiting list and geographical location.

10

Apple Leasing hole at the Annual Chip Shot Open Benefiting Donate Life Texas

Can I be an organ and tissue donor and also donate my body to medical science?

Total body donation and organ/tissue donation are different processes handled by separate organizations. A driver’s license/ID consent is only for organ, eye and tissue donation. If you wish to donate your entire body, you should directly contact the facility of your choice to make arrangements.

If I have a previous medical condition, can I still donate?

Determination of suitability to donate organs or tissue is based on a combination of factors that take into account the donor’s general health. This determination is done by the medical staff that recovers the organs or by the transplant team that reviews all of the data about the organ(s), eyes or tissue that have been recovered from the donor.

Transplant professionals will evaluate potential donors and determine suitability for donation of particular organs, eyes or tissue when the time for donation arises. Note: Everyone is considered a potential donor; please don’t rule yourself out because of a medical condition.

For more information and resources, please call 1-866-685-0277.

EDITOR W

july/august 2013 |

77

Myths and Misconceptions Myth: If doctors know you’re a donor, they won’t work as hard to save you.

Fact: This is a very common fear. However, this isn’t possible because of the checks and balances built into the system. If you are sick or injured and admitted to the hospital, the doctor’s only job is to save your life. Emergency Room doctors and nurses are not involved in the transplant process and are not affiliated with the team of surgeons who perform organ transplants. Organ transplant can only occur after blood and tissue testing is done in order to match donors and recipients; this is not done by doctors when you enter the hospital. Donation is considered only after death is declared by a physician. Decisions about who receives organs are overseen by the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS), which ensures that the system is fair and equitable.

Myth: When you’re waiting for a transplant, your financial or celebrity status is as important as your medical status.

Fact: The UNOS computerized matching system does not select recipients based on fame or wealth. Organs are matched by blood and tissue typing, organ size, medical urgency, waiting time and geographic location.

Myth: Your history of medical illness means your organs, eyes or tissues are unfit for donation.

Fact: At the time of death, the appropriate medical professionals will review your medical and social histories to determine whether or not you can be a donor. Even if you have had a serious health problem like diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, certain types of cancer or even hepatitis, you may still be able to donate at the time of death.

Myth: Organ donation disfigures the body and changes the way it looks in a casket.

Fact: Donated organs are removed surgically in a routine operation similar to open heart surgery. Donation does not change the appearance of the body for the funeral service. An open-casket funeral is possible after donation.

Myth: Your religion does not support organ, eye and tissue donation.

Fact: All major organized religions approve of organ, eye and tissue donation and consider it an act of charity or leave it up to the decision of the individual.

Myth: Minorities should refuse to donate because organ distribution discriminates by race.

Fact: Organs are matched by many factors, including blood and tissue typing, medical urgency and time on the waiting list. A person’s race or ethnic origin does not affect who receives available organs and tissue. Although it is possible for a candidate to match a donor from another racial or ethnic group, transplant success rates increase when organs are matched between members of the same ethnic background. Consequently, a lack of organs donated by multicultural populations can contribute to longer waiting periods for transplantation.

Myth: If I donate, I would worry that the recipient and/or the recipient’s family would discover my identity and cause more grief for my family.

Fact:

Information about donors and recipients is kept strictly confidential. For circumstances in which the donor and recipient families would like to know more about each other, arrangements can be made if permission is obtained from both parties.

Myth: I heard a story that you can be heavily drugged, then wake to find you have had one kidney (or both) removed for a black market transplant.

Fact:

12

This is a famous urban legend. While black market transplantation has occurred outside the U.S., it is only a small minority of transplants performed worldwide. The U.S. has a highly regulated system. And if there is even a slight suspicion of illegal activity, the hospital will refuse to perform the transplant. There is no documented evidence of the above scenario ever occurring in the U.S., and it would require removal of the organ by a skilled physician as well as adequate compatibility with a recipient, so the chances of this scenario occurring are highly unlikely.

A Special Section from San Antonio Woman

Texas Organ Sharing Alliance 2012 Report to the Community Each year across the country, thousands of individuals receive a renewed opportunity for life and good health because someone made the decision to donate.

Last 5 years of Donation and Transplantation

415 390 368

353

306

115

116

105

88

94

TRANSPLANT RECIPIENTS

Small Bowel 1

This chart illustrates the 94 donors in 2012, the type of organs transplanted and how many of each.

Lung 60 Heart 41 Kidney 175 Liver 86 Pancreas 20

14

18.....Average number of people on the waiting list who will die today 11.....Every 11 minutes a new name is added to the national transplant list 78.....Average number of people on the waiting list who will receive an organ transplant 8.....Number of lives one organ donor could save 75.....Number of lives an organ, eye and tissue donor can save or enhance

For more information and resources, please call 1-866-685-0277.

Contact TOSA if you would like to: Enroll in the new Glenda Dawson Donate Life Texas Registry.

Obtain organ, eye and tissue donation information.

Request speakers for schools, churches, civic organizations or health fairs.

Become a volunteer and help raise awareness of donation! www.txorgansharing.org

1-866-685-0277

CENTRAL REGION (HEADQUARTERS) 8122 Datapoint Drive, Suite 200 San Antonio, Texas 78229 (210) 614-7030 O (210) 614-2129 F

NORTHERN REGION

SOUTHERN REGION

7000 North Mopac, Suite 160 Austin, Texas 78731 (512) 459.4848 O (512) 459.7794 F

1400 N. McColl Road, Suite 104A McAllen, Texas 78501 (956) 630-0884 O (956) 687-7185 F

Follow us on:

www.save8.org

GLENDA DAWSON DONATE LIFE TEXAS REGISTRY www.donatelifetexas.org

www.donevidatexas.org

DOLLARS & SENSE W once did, or is it the collegial atmosphere of a busy workplace you seek? Do you like a creative, free-wheeling environment or more structure? Try creating a collage of pictures and words cut from magazines that illustrate the facets of your new work life and study the result for patterns and ideas.

• Do you have new skills and interests?

You may have developed new skills that would help you in a different field of work.

Your interest in a subject may have led you into volunteer work in that area, which gave you new skills and created a useful network.

In addition, many of the skills related to parenthood — patience, negotiation, emotional maturity, the ability to give an entertaining presentation, and so on — can serve you well

Out of the Fat and into the Fire Is it time to go back to work?

By Mary Anne Cole

Maybe your kids are old enough to be at school all day and you’ve grown a little bored.

Maybe parenthood isn’t the all-consuming ac-

in the workplace, so don’t brush off your parenting skills as having nothing to do with your career choice.

If you’re really not sure, a career development professional can help you assess your skills, values, interests and personality to define the career that’s right for you. You can start at the website of the National Career Development Association (ncda.org) to find a professional who is the right match for you in terms of specialization and personality. A good career development professional can also tell you about trends in the labor market — what fields are overloaded with applicants,

fulfilling will make it easier to manage the new

which ones tend to be parent-friendly, and so

complexity in your life with a smile.

on — and can help you with the next step.

The career you pursued before children

tivity you thought it would be, and you’re

may still be the career of your dreams, or it

itching for more adult interaction or chal-

may have changed so it’s no longer something

Deciding on the field you want to pursue,

lenge. Maybe the family budget can use a

you’re interested in. Even more likely, you may

whether it’s the area in which you used to

cash infusion. Maybe you always planned to

have changed and developed new interests.

work or a new one, is only the first step. Now

go back to work, and the time has come.

Only about 40 percent of parents who return

comes the real work — and, in many cases, ex-

Whatever the reason, many parents who opt

to the workforce go back into their former ca-

pense — involved in ensuring you’re current in

to stay home with children eventually decide

reer paths, so your first task is to decide

the field. If it’s a new area for you, you may

that it’s time to get back into the workforce.

what’s right for you now. Three questions can

have to earn new professional credentials —

help you figure out what that is:

even a degree. The first step for many return-

Let’s assume you’ve already navigated

GET READY

the question about whether you should go

• Did you like your old career? Just be-

ing workers is volunteer work, which not only

back to work. You’ve figured out who’s going

cause you have a degree and experience in a

helps you hone your skills but also widens

to take who where when and who’s going to

field is no reason to think you have no other

your network and lets people in your field see

wash what how often and who’s going to do

choices. If you never liked your old career that

what you can do.

everything else you used to do when you

much, you’re unlikely to have kept up with

But even if it’s your original field, you’ll

were a full-time parent. That’s no small as-

changes in the field, and you’ll have a long

want to ensure you’re up on what’s changed

sumption, but let’s assume it anyway and turn

road to getting back on top of things. You’re

since you left — the new jargon, the new tech-

to what’s next.

far more likely to be current with whatever

nology — before you step into your first inter-

you’re interested in now.

CHOOSE THE RIGHT JOB

• Do the requirements of your old job fit

view. Now is the time to jump in neck-deep — read, talk with people in the field, take

One of the keys to being able to balance

your life now? In addition to considering your

courses, figure out where your knowledge

family and work successfully is having work

interest in the field you work in, you have to

gaps are and fill them.

you like, since being unhappy at work doesn’t

consider the parameters of the job and how

And that’s not all: Look at your wardrobe

exactly make for a happy home. A career that

they work with your life. Do you value auton-

and your haircut — do they fit where you want

makes the most of what you’re good at and is

omy and independence now more than you

to be, or did they freeze in the ’90s? Would it

july/august 2013 |

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W DOLLARS & SENSE help your professional look to lose a few pounds or gain a level of fitness? Does your posture need work after years of lugging around toddlers, diaper bags and car seats? Does your makeup style look like something out of Working Girl? Looking polished and up-to-date will not only make you look current and professional, it will also increase your confidence and help you to project that confidence.

When it’s time to write your résumé, unearth your old job performance appraisals to remind yourself of what your employer valued. One approach that may help is to think of your résumé as a way to communicate your mission statement and your brand, rather than as a yearby-year chronology, so build your résumé around your skills, what you can contribute, your work ethic and your currency in the field, rather than timelines and dates. Consider what Ceri Wheeldon, founder of website FabAfterFifty (fabafterfifty.co.uk), listed were the attributes that women (and men) who are returning to the workforce later in life have to offer: • maturity and confidence • unflappability, calm reactions in a crisis • variety of skills and experience • ability to mentor • ability to multitask • strong organizational skills • ability to communicate across the generations • reliability and self-motivation • minimal “drama” in the workplace • consistency; generally stay in jobs longer, reducing recruitment and training costs Now, what employer in his or her right mind wouldn’t want such an employee? Well, some might not, so your job at this point is to find those that do.

FIND THE RIGHT EMPLOYER Check out magazine and online articles on “best companies for women” or “best companies for families” to find companies that value and accommodate what parents have to offer. More than half of those who return to work after a leave of absence are hired by companies smaller than the ones they left, as these companies tend to be less focused on convention and traditional career ladders.

In addition to all the tasks required of anyone who looks for a new job, parents who return to the workforce after several years away have to figure out how to deal with that “gap” in their résumés, and that applies to your interview as well. Think of and communicate your time away as a “planned sabbatical”— a time to renew and refresh — rather than as quitting or walking away. Focus on what you learned while you were on sabbatical, what you accomplished, how it was part of a “master plan,” and how it helped to motivate and prepare you for your return to work. Taking this approach will emphasize your commitment and rationality, and you’ll be far less likely to be perceived as a “dabbler” for whom work is less than a priority.

Even if your work-related accomplishments are well in the past, talk about them as though they happened yesterday. The ability to improve anything — sales, audience attendance, student performance, cases won, whatever — doesn’t age out of relevance. And what you’ve learned since then can only make you better.

Getting back into the workforce after an absence is not likely to be the easiest thing you’ve ever done, but neither was raising children.

The tenacity, determination and organizational skills you learned in that role will serve you well as you work toward stepping into the next stage of life.

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WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE

BOOMTOWN

SAN ANTONIO

Buying or selling, now is the time to make a move, and here are the real estate agents to call

By Janis Turk

Buyers and sellers, beware! You and your Realtor are going to be really busy this year.

Why? Because real estate is booming in San Antonio in 2013.

In fact, the San Antonio Board of REALTORS® recently released housing market statistics showing that the number of homes selling in comparison to last year continues to rise. January 2013 saw a total of 1,249 homes sold during that month alone — a 24percent increase from January of 2012, according to a Multiple Listing Service report by the San Antonio Board of REALTORS®.

February saw an even greater rise. By May, homes were selling, on average, in just 81 days. Summer is bringing even more sellers into the market, too. It's all good news for the Alamo City, and great news for those in the market for new homes, as well.

Named one of the top 10 fastest-growing cities in the United States by Forbes, San Antonio was also ranked No. 11 for job growth and No. 13 for being one of the best places for busi-

ness and careers. But no one had to tell San Antonio folks that — we already knew our town is the best in the Lone Star state. New jobs, new growth, good schools, beautiful parks, a happening downtown — we have it all here in San Antonio, and the rest of the world is figuring it out, and many are moving here.

So if you're in the market for a home or you're considering selling yours, you'll need to find a real estate agent right away.

Where do you begin? Here is a list of agents who know and love San Antonio and are sure to help with your next big move.

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WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE

Zanna Chbeir

Judy Dalrymple,ABR,CRS,GRI

Keller-Williams Realty

Phyllis Browning Company

Zanna’s experience in small business and marketing gives her an eye for translating current economic trends into buying and selling power for her clients. She had a passion for connecting with people and helping them achieve their goals. Zanna serves her community and the arts as a member of the San Antonio Symphony League. She is a memebr of WeLead, the San Antonio chapter of NAFE, and was recently profiled on Fox News Woman of the Week.

Judy has more than 20 years of real estate experience. She has both the knowledge and the tools to handle most any real estate need. She has been the No.1 Producer and Agent at Phyllis Browning Co. since 2003. Being a top-performing agent requires the ability to produce sustainable long-term client relationships. Since being with Phyllis Browning Co., Judy has sold $382,130,717 in 9 years, averaging $42,000,000 a year.

1812 Nacogdoches San Antonio, Tx 78209 Tel: (210) 821-6441

14855 Blanco Road Ste. 403 San Antonio, TX 78216

Cell:(210) 602-3637

Tel: (210)408-4080 Fax: (210) 638-6187

Cell:(210) 854-8888 zdchbeir@me.com

Fax:(210) 408-2525 www.zannachbeir.kwrealty.com

Judy@GoSeeJudy.com www.GoSeeJudy.com

Kathy Hoermann Kuper Sotheby's International Realty

As a born-and-raised Texan, Kathy Hoermann has integrated the best qualities of San Antonio and the Hill Country in her profession to provide an exceptional experience in real estate. Twenty-five years as an award-winning entrepreneur in wholesale manufacturing allowed her to concentrate on this state and also offered her opportunities nationwide, sharpening her savvy negotiation skills for both buyers and sellers. As a homeowner, she has personally been involved in numerous transactions — residential, commercial land, waterfront escapes, renovation and remodeling — experience that helps provide cutting-edge marketing and the successful sale of properties of any size. Let her competitive edge work for you!

Kimberly Howell Properties

Kristen Michaelsen joined the Pinnacle Team in December of 2010 after graduating from Texas A&M with a degree in Economics. She is a Realtor® and head Property Manager. The Property Management division has increased significantly since she started and is now its own division within the Pinnacle Team. The team now provides management and investment options to clients on top of buying and selling.

Kristen has continued to grow the team's management division by serving her clients with unmatched customer service and dedication to her clients. Whether you are buying, selling or investing, the Pinnacle Team will serve you with respect and the utmost care.

6606 N. New Braunfels San Antonio, Tx 78209

21252 Gathering Oak, Ste 100 San Antonio, TX 78260

Tel: (210) 822-8602

Tel: (210) 319-5009

Cell:(210) 508-2454

Cell: (210) 954-1797

Fax: (210) 822-6646

KristenSellsSA@gmail.com

Kathy.Hoermann@Sothebysrealty.com

www.WelcomeHomeToSA.com

www.kuperrealty.com

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Kristen Michaelsen,REALTOR®

WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE

Debra Janes KW Luxury International

Consistently recognized as the one of the Top Residential Real Estate Agents in the San Antonio luxury market for many years, Debra excels in marketing and selling the most elite and unusual properties in San Antonio, on the Texas Coastline and in the Texas Hill Country. Debra has the distinction of having several of the highest recorded residential sales and several nonrecorded development land sales in The Dominion where she has successfully located her office for the past 16 years. Debra has ranked as one of the Top Real Estate Agents as reported by the San Antonio Business Journal’s list of the Top 50 Realtors for many years. She has consistently been named the #1 listing and selling agent in the industry within her brokerage and has now expanded her client service by engaging 3 energetic and enthusiastic licensed Realtor Assistants. Her new location at the KW Luxury International Headquarters at The Dominion Sales and Information Pavilion in San Antonio promises even more marketing opportunities than ever before.

Debra’s primary focus is to provide the kind of highend real estate marketing, knowledge and client service that no one forgets. This philosophy and practice have earned her the gratifying distinction of referral business and client loyalty.

She is a dedicated professional who is well respected in her sphere of influence and among her professional peers.

Closing three properties totaling more than $10 million in the month of May, Debra’s continued success makes her San Antonio’s best asset...

…FOR EVERYTHING REAL ESTATE.

10 Dominion Drive San Antonio, Tx. 78257 Tel. (210) 573-4040 Fax: (210) 698-9981 dj@gvtc.com www.DebraJanes.com

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WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE

Claudia Nolen,REALTOR® Phyllis Browning Company

Claudia is a Certified Residential Specialist and has been recognized repeatedly by the San Antonio Business Journal as one of the top 50 real estate agents in San Antonio. She has consistently received the distinct honor of being ranked as one of the top producing Realtors® in San Antonio throughout her 25-year career at Phyllis Browning Company.

Claudia’s enthusiasm, experience and genuine care for her clients have always set her apart, and most remain lifelong friends after their transaction. A native of Vernon, Texas, she holds B.S. degrees in biology and business from Texas Christian University. Prior to entering real estate in 1980, Claudia taught high school biology for three years. She is a member of the Tri Delta Alumnae Association and the Alamo Heights Methodist Church. She is very proud of her daughters who are married and her five grandchildren.

6106 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209

Tel: (210) 829-2533 Cell: (210) 827-4696 eFax: (210) 829-2550

cnolen@phyllisbrowning.com

www.phyllisbrowning.com

Jennifer Nack

Terri Saari,REALTOR®

Kuper Sotheby's International Realty

Kimberly Howell Properties

Jennifer Nack is a successful real estate professional with 13 years of real estate experience. Currently a multi million-dollar producer for Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty, she was named a Top 50 Agent in the city by the SABJ and a Top 10 Agent at Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty. Jennifer provides extensive knowledge of the San Antonio area and places great importance on giving back to her community regularly dedicating her time to the San Antonio Food Bank, the San Antonio Livestock Show and The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society and The San Antonio Playhouse.

434 N. Loop 1604 West Suite 3103 San Antonio, Tx 78232 Tel: (210) 490-1200 Cell: (210) 410-1276 Fax: (210) 490-1205 jennifer.nack@sothebysrealty.com www.kuperrealty.com

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Terri Saari is a recognized top producing Realtor® in San Antonio, TX. She joined Real Estate after serving in the USAF for 20+ years. Being retired USAF, Terri has bought and sold many personal homes, and so it is no surprise that she is now a top-producing Realtor®.

After being in the business for almost 10 years, Terri has continued to grow by creating the Pinnacle Team. Her team now can help more clients with more of their Real Estate needs. She is dedicated to serving her clients with top-of-the-line customer service, commitment and attention to detail in every transaction.

21252 Gathering Oak, Ste 100 San Antonio, TX 78260 Tel: (210) 319-5009 Cell: (210) 887-3477 TerriSellsSA@gmail.com www.WelcomeHomeToSA.com

WOMEN IN REAL ESTATE

Tiffany Stevens Phyllis Browning Company

Born and raised in San Antonio and an alumna of Texas A&M, Tiffany Stevens is a consistent multimillion-dollar award winner. Her diverse portfolio consists of working with buyers, sellers, investors, new construction, bank-owned properties and relocation companies. She also has expertise in creating and implementing effective marketing strategies for promoting new development in and around San Antonio. She was a platinum top 50 finalist in 2012 and won the Texas Monthly Five Star Professional Award for Central Texas in 2013. In her spare time, she's a singer, songwriter, avid fitness enthusiast and member of the Junior League.

14855 Blanco Road, Ste. 403 San Antonio, TX 78216

Cell: (210) 364-6862 tstevens@phyllisbrowning.com www.tstevensrealestate.com

Melanie Wilson,ALHS Associate Broker

Mary Wofford,CRP,ALHS

Phyllis Browning Company

Award winning Realtor速 and relocation professional, Mary Wofford brings 30+ years of experience to every home-buying/selling transaction. Whether working with a CEO relocating to San Antonio or helping sell your current home, Mary's extensive work experience and education have been key in producing a history of quality transactions, resulting in a career built on personal referrals. Mary is active in many civic organizations, including Furniture for a Cause, and is the past president of the San Antonio Relocation Council.

A native Texan, Melanie Wilson graduated from SMU and has been in the real estate industry since 1981. Her years in residential and commercial real estate plus experience as a state-certified general appraiser for both commercial and residential properties enable her to work with a variety of clients. Melanie receives great satisfaction in finding the right fit for sellers and buyers and feels honored to have loyal clients and their referrals. Along with being an Accredited Luxury Home Specialist (ALHS), a member of the Star Circle for sales exceeding $6 million and a Platinum Top 50 Finalist, she is a member of the local, state and national professional organizations for Realtors. In 2005 she was the listing agent for the highest recorded MLS sale. In addition to her work, Melanie is involved with various community activities.

Phyllis Browning Company

6101 Broadway San Antonio, Tx 78209

24200 IH-10 W, Ste.101 San Antonio, TX 78257

Tel: (210) 824-7878 ext. 1106

Tel: (210) 698-4749

Cell: (210) 219-2500

Cell:(210) 219-5520

Fax: (210) 829-2500

Fax:(210) 687-1236

mwilson@phyllisbrowning.com

mwofford@phyllisbrowning.com

www.phyllisbrowning.com

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W SENIOR LIVING

What’s Out There?

One housing option: residential care homes

By Wendy Huston

The question of what’s out there is often asked by seniors and their families as they begin looking in the community for help with housing, in-home care and other assistance for themselves or their loved ones. Many times the daughter or son of a senior is the one who needs to find these resources, and many times they have no clue where to begin.

Words like residential care, assisted living, rehab, respite care or provider care are often heard at senior centers, hospitals or on the news. However, many individuals do not know exactly what these words mean, whether they apply to their situation or how to get started.

In this and subsequent articles, we hope to answer these questions, dispel myths regarding senior options and inform the community not only as to what’s out there for seniors, but also how to get started, whom to call and what their options are.

As we explore many of these topics, seniors and their families will begin to see that there are many choices in the community; it is just a matter of finding them. Some are already known, and other choices are just emerging.

The first topic to be discussed is one regarding a housing choice for seniors. A little known option that is gaining popularity very quickly is the residential care home. These gems of assisted and nursing care are scattered throughout San Antonio and surrounding areas, often nestled in quiet neighborhoods. These homes often house up to three clients and provide a home-like atmosphere. Residential care homes are actual homes, often owned by doctors, nurses or certified nursing assistants, who want

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to provide care for our senior citizens on a one-to-one basis. These professionals not only open their homes to help senior citizens, but also can provide necessary medical attention and around-the-clock assistance.

The average client in a residential care home is one who needs assistance in daily activities such as bathing, taking medications and food preparation. The resident may no longer drive and yet can enjoy activities that are often provided in these homes.

The environment of residential care homes makes the transition from the senior’s own home easier than from their home to a more impersonal facility. Families are encouraged to visit, take their loved one on outings, stay for lunch or just enjoy quiet time. They can come and go as they please, visiting as often as they like, without the need to sign in or out. The resident, in most cases, becomes like a family member of his caregivers, who work hard to provide for the needs of the senior, yet have a personal touch often missing in today’s overcrowded and understaffed facilities.

The owners of these homes provide 24-hour care at a cost dependent upon care level needs, which can be less than other housing options. These homes are great

SENIOR LIVING W

finds in the field of senior care and provide residents with private or semiprivate rooms, meals to their liking or to fit to their specific needs, such as for diabetics, and assistance in their daily activities.

Families can have peace of mind knowing that their loved ones are being treated well by professionals. It’s an environment where they can bring items from their loved one’s home, such as pictures for the walls. The transition then becomes easier if the senior has familiar items around that make him or her feel more at home, and they also have the privacy they may want.

Residential care homes can often be found near the family home, making it easier for families to visit and also a comfort for the senior to know his or her loved ones are nearby. These homes are found in many areas in San Antonio and surrounding cities to fit a senior’s or family budget as well as to address a resident’s special needs.

Families or seniors need to contact senior services that specialize in residential care homes and will do the legwork for them, finding a series of choices from which the families can pick the best fit. Services will also help in weeding out inappropriate placements and eliminating the frustration families often feel knowing they have to do something but not knowing how to start or where to look. Doing this search on one’s own can be terribly time-consuming, and the individual rarely knows what is available or how to access it.

It is hoped this first topic, residential care homes, will provide readers with another option for seniors. Familiarity with this option can help with decisions as to the next step to be taken in their loved ones’ lives. Information is the key, and having choices makes it easier to find the appropriate care and meet the needs of our senior population.

In future articles, we will be discussing other options of senior care, more housing needs, funding options, boarding homes and services for the mentally ill, and providing information to make transitions and life changes easier by knowing what’s out there.

Wendy Huston is owner/CEO of Bloom Where you’re Planted, offering free adult and senior living resources.

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W BUSINESS WOMAN SPOTLIGHT

June Bratcher Daisy Charters and Shuttles Founder and CEO

What do you do? Whatever needs to be done, which includes supervising 57 employees and covering any desk in the office. I’ve been here 33 years.

do things women would ordinarily not do. Her ambition, her fearlessness and her resolve to stand by her convictions in spite of all of the criticism.

What is it that you like best about your job? The fascinating people I meet — war heroes, basketball stars, famous singers and movie stars and wounded warriors.

What do you like to do in your spare time? I am writing a book, You Are Driving Me Crazy, a story of all of the diverse things we have faced along the way.

Education/Major: R.N. at Huron Road Hospital, affiliated with Case Western Reserve.

What is your all-time favorite book? The Joy of Cooking by Rombauer and Becker.

What career path led you to where you are today? I had opened a cooking school and took my students on different field trips to restaurants, herb farms and cheese factories. I found I liked coordinating the trip better than the cooking part, so I closed the school and went into the tour and transportation field.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life, personally and professionally? Personally: my husband, who always encouraged me but never associated in any way because as a surgeon he had no time. Now he wants to buy stock, but it’s not available.

Professionally: Franklin Roe, my first business partner. He taught me everything I needed to know about the industry, planning the trip and costing it out.

When did you know that you were in the right place in your career? In 1980, when I started, a woman could not sign for a loan. Her husband had to sign or even an 18-year-old son. I had to work to get that changed. I spent 13 years putting my husband through medical school, internship and a surgical residency. He was willing to sign, but I refused. This time it would be for me.

After seven years of trying, that law was changed, and I got a $125,000 loan. In the fall of 1987 I knew I was in the right place. I could do this!

Would you encourage your children to go into the same field? All of our children have college degrees. A few years ago I told them I couldn’t do this forever and gave them three options: 1, I can sell the business and give you the proceeds. 2. I can hire someone to run the business and give you all of the profit. 3. You can try it for two years and if you don’t like it, go back to offer one or two. They agreed to try it for two years, and that was nine years ago.

They love it.

Who were your mentors? My husband, first of all, was always encouraging, and my friends in NAWBO kept me focused and moving forward.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? In my day a girl had three options: a nurse or a teacher or get married — that covered it! I chose nursing. It got me off the farm and into the city.

What person do you most admire?

Eleanor Roosevelt for her courage to Photography Casey Howell

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What brought you to San Antonio?

My husband was stationed here at Randolph AFB as a flight surgeon.

What community or not-for-profit groups are you involved with? NAWBO, National Defense Transportation Association, Go Red for Women, Professional Tour Guide Association, Medical Alliance, Wayside Chapel, Shop with a Cop for disadvantaged children and NAWBO’s Million Dollar Round Table.

Do you have a favorite restaurant?

One of my favorites is Mi Tierra. I love to take visitors there. They love it and ask, “Do you live like this all of the time?” Yes! How do you find balance in your life — career, community and home life? I am blessed with an overabundance of energy and love a full schedule, so I find time for everything.

What is the best advice that you have ever received? From my first business partner, Franklin Roe: “Never learn to drive a bus, give your employees (52 men and four women) something that you can’t do.” True! I need them. It was great advice. I had wanted to learn to drive a bus.

What would people be surprised to know about you? Most everyone knows I started with $200. Few know that our gross sales this year will exceed $5 million.

Women in Business Directory

SA Woman Connect

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SA Woman Connect.com

Women in Business Directory

Advertising and Marketing Penguin Suits Debi Lamb-Burrows 100 West Hosack Street, Suite 102 Boerne, TX 78006 Phone: (830) 816-8238 Email: Debi@penguinsuits.com Website: www.penguinsuits.com Penguin Suits uniquely brands your business by creating the essentials for your marketing sucess: websites with a call to action, distinctive logos, unforgettable business cards and brochures specifically designed to tell your story. A certified woman-owned business, we are a graduate of and marketing instructor for the BE San Antonio program. We love to tell stories, let us tell yours.

Eating Disorder Treatment Eating Disorder Center at San Antonio (EDCASA) Susan C. Mengden, PhD, Kay C. Watt, MAPC, LPC

515 Busby • San Antonio, Texas 78209 Phone: (210) 826-7447 • Email: info@edcasa.com Website: www.edcasa.com EDCASA provides comprehensive outpatient treatment for anorexia, bulimia and binge-eating disorders. We offer multilevel treatment programs providing medical, psychological, spiritual and dietetic care for individuals of all ages.

Engineering Bain Medina Bain, Inc. Pamela Bain – President 7073 San Pedro • San Antonio, TX 78216 Phone: (210) 494-7223 Email: pbain@bmbi.com Website: www.bmbi.com Bain Media Bain provides civil and transportation engineering and land surveying for city, county, state and private entities. We have been named in the “Best Places to Work” for five years.

Jewelers Peñaloza & Sons Alice Peñaloza 2001 N.W. Military Hwy • San Antonio, TX 78213 Phone: (210) 340-3536 Email: info@penalozaandsons.com Website: www.penalozaandsons.com Family owned Peñaloza & Sons celebrates over 50 years of quality, craftsmanship and customer satisfaction. The store offers its own custom designs as well as unique pieces from around the world, appraisals, engraving, repairs and complete watch services.

96 | sawoman.com

MOMMY MATTERS W

I hear firsthand horror stories from friends whose children have been the target of online bullying via social media. Smart phones are like weapons in the hands of a child who can instantly upload an image and destroy a life in mere seconds. Think that’s an exaggeration?

Dealing with The

“iWants” Commonsense rules for communicating in cyberspace

By Bonny Osterhage

Ask the parents of 15-year-old Audrie Pott, the young lady who killed herself after photographs of her alleged rape at a party went viral.

Bullying aside, there are other aspects of cyberworld that I find hard to swallow, namely the fact that it is killing one-on-one communication. At the risk of sounding old, I remember when “hanging out” involved a large group of friends, lots of chatter and plenty of laughter.

Now, I see kids “hanging out,” and the silence is punctuated only by the “ping” of text message alerts. Teens message one another to ask for a date, and they speak in abbreviated terms. I actually had one friend’s child tell me, “OMG that was so funny I LOL’d.” And who hasn’t witnessed a family “eating” together, each one bent over an electronic device without ever exchanging a word?

My sons were among the last in their classes (or so they repeatedly told me) to get

N

a coveted “i” device in the form of an iTouch.

Of course, that was only the gateway drug.

ot so long ago, my two sons were

walk through just yet, or, perhaps more accu-

content to play with train sets and

rately, that I am not ready for them to walk

This past Christmas, we relented and pur-

Tonka trucks for hours on end.

through just yet. Specifically? The world of on-

chased an iPad, based on a rather persuasive

Flash forward a few years, and suddenly we are

line social interaction via texting, “Facebook-

argument that it would make summer reading

inundated with what I call the “iWants.”

ing,” chatting, “instagraming”… the list goes on

much easier to accomplish while on vacation.

and on.

Clever, those 9-year-olds! We are still holdouts

What are the “iWants?” They are the seemingly never-ending requests for the latest and greatest gadget, including but not limited to, the iTouch, iPad, and most recently, the iPhone.

Then, of course, there are the “iTunes” gift cards that must accompany these devices, lest your child “accidentally” download $200 worth of apps. “But Mom, I thought they were free!”

Don’t get me wrong. I am not averse to technology in general, or to kids occasionally unwinding with age-appropriate video games.

Having recently been turned on to the maddening and addictive Candy Crush, trust me, I understand the appeal. What bothers me about this virtual playground in which our children freely romp is much larger than simply crushing candies or catapulting birds. What bothers me is that they open doors that I don’t

Set up your child’s account in a way that all texts come to your phone as well as his or hers.

think my two sons, ages 9 and 11, are ready to

july/august 2013 |

97

W MOMMY MATTERS

on any type of cell phone, simply because

friend on any and all social media platforms,

our lifestyle doesn’t demand that our chil-

and check them frequently.

dren need one yet, and any form of social media is forbidden.

In addition, a list of rules and restrictions

• Dock all phones and electronic devices

accompanied these devices, including but

(including those of guests) in your room at

not limited to: • Time limitations • Parental approval of any app downloads and/or songs • Parental approval of any “friends” with whom you can play an interactive game • No electronic devices at the table or in restaurants, period We know it is a matter of time before the smartphone will rear its ugly head. In fact,

a designated hour, especially in the case of sleepovers.

While all of these rules are important, perhaps the most important is an open line of communication. Explain to your child how one seemingly harmless mistake can have far-reaching consequences, and that posts, texts and photos sent into cyberspace are hard if not impossible to retrieve before the damage is done.

the need for the oldest son to “get some

The website www.commonsenseme-

numbers” in order to ask young ladies to

dia.com has media agreements divided into

school dances next year is already a hot

age groups that can help families navigate

topic. (“Mom, I can’t just write them down!

the bumpy terrain of cyberland. Use them

How embarrassing!”) In preparation, I have

as conversation starters, guidelines or

asked friends what rules and guidelines they

binding contracts between you and your

have in place for smartphone and social

children. And remember, you lose credibil-

media usage and here are just a few:

ity when you tell your child to put his de-

• Set up your child’s account in such a

vice away at the table as you quickly

way that all texts come to your phone as well

respond to that “one last work e-mail” on

as his or hers.

yours. Children learn by example, so prac-

• Make sure that your child adds you as a

98 | sawoman.com

• Set parental controls on all devices, including the home computer.

tice what you preach.

W EDITOR

100 | sawoman.com

Directory of San Antonio Area

2013-2014

Private Schools CONTENTS Private Practice — Why a private education might be the right choice for your children .......................................................102 Directory of San Antonio Private Schools ............................................................................................................................106 PROFILED SCHOOLS Saint Mary’s Hall..........................................................100 Buckner Fanning School ............................................105 Cornerstone ................................................................106 Hill Country Montessori ...............................................107 Keystone.....................................................................108 Lutheran High School..................................................109 Montessori San Antonio ..............................................110 St. Luke’s Episcopal ....................................................111 St. Matthew Catholic School .......................................112

St. Thomas Episcopal ....................................................113 San Antonio Christian Schools .......................................114 Sunshine Cottage...........................................................115 TMI.................................................................................115 San Antonio Academy ....................................................116 Monarch Academy .........................................................116 Brain Balance .................................................................116 Trinity Christian ..............................................................117 The Winston School .......................................................117

Visit us online at www.SAPrivateSchools.com Cover Photos courtesy of: Keystone, San Antonio Academy, Saint Mary’s Hall, St. Matthew Catholic School, Trinity Christian Copyright© 2013 PixelWorks Corporation.

San Antonio Woman — Private School Directory is published by PixelWorks Corporation (Publisher). All published information is subject to change. 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 — Private School Directory reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. San Antonio Woman — Private School Directory 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. Printed in the U.S.A.

july/august 2013 |

101

Private Practice

BY JANIS TURK

Why a private school education might be the right choice for your children Hayley is studying both philosophy and cre-

plenty of time to see the rougher side of society

ative writing, along with biology and calculus.

during adulthood, after a child’s core values have

She’s thinking about taking Latin next year, as

been nurtured and fostered in a setting that en-

well. But Hayley isn’t in college, as one might as-

courages morality and discipline.

sume. She’s a high school student at a San An-

Such dialogue about the pros and cons of private and public schools can make for some inter-

tonio-area private school.

Who knew a teenager could take traditional

esting — and often heated — discussions.

college course subjects like these while still in high

Ultimately, where to send one’s child to school is

school? If a student is enrolled in a private school

a deeply personal decision and one that merits

in San Antonio, he or she can. That’s just one of

serious consideration of the individual needs of a

the reasons that private education is so popular

child and his family.

Saint Mary’s Hall

with many local families.

Although a private school education may not

Private school parents’ stories

be the right choice for every child, some parents

James is a typical high school sophomore

feel that their child’s needs may best be met in

who loves computer games and baseball, hates

a private or parochial school setting. Sometimes

algebra and thinks his history class is kind of

that decision is made based on religious beliefs,

“cool.” His parents say they decided on a private

class

the

school because it’s small and easy for a shy teen

school’s location or even after-school child care

size,

instructional

approaches,

like James to make friends. They wanted a place

offerings. Other times the decision is based on

where discipline is strict and the importance of

a school’s curriculum.

academics is stressed, and they also wanted to

Today’s parents may worry about the discipli-

know their son would get one-on-one attention

nary problems in public schools and possible

and help with his more challenging subjects. But

negative influences of pop culture prevalent

most of all, they were concerned about things

among today’s youth. Some dislike the effects of

they were hearing about the public school in

the state’s strict assessment and testing ap-

their district.

proaches in public schools.

St. Matthew Catholic School

The family was fortunate enough to have a

However, other public school children’s par-

parochial primary school near their home when

ents feel that kids get a more accurate view of the

James was younger, and they were pleased with

“real world” and aren’t sheltered from hard truths

his education there. So when it came time for high

in public schools. On the other hand, private

school, they visited several schools until they

school children’s parents may maintain there’s

found a private school that had the same kind of San Antonio Academy

102 | sawoman.com

religious and academic environment, individual at-

Small classes, big plus

tention, strong curriculum, dedicated teachers

Often the decision to send a child to a private

and extracurricular options that James had en-

school isn’t based on religious beliefs, but rather

joyed in his previous school.

on the small class and campus size that affords

“We like it that our son is having the kind of

students more one-on-one attention and fosters

small-town, small-school experience with the

a better atmosphere for high academic and dis-

same kinds of classrooms and teachers, dress

ciplinary standards. Schools where teachers, ad-

and conduct codes and solid curriculum we had

ministrators, involved parents and students all are

when we were kids. I just don’t think he would

on a first-name basis are well tuned into students’

have had that in a public school where thousands

needs. Knowing a student’s own specific person-

of students are enrolled,” says James’ dad.

ality, skills, learning difficulties, strengths and more

Another child, Anna, lives on San Antonio’s north side. Her parents also felt their daughter

can make it easier for teachers to adapt their les-

Trinity Christian Academy

son plans to better reach students.

would do well in a private school, and they found one they liked in central San Antonio that isn’t affiliated with a specific religious denomination but still values basic Christian education.

“Our decision to send our daughter to a

Choice curriculum Many private schools offer a wide array of curriculum options and college preparatory opportunities to students.

Christian school was based on our desire for her

Jonathan Eades, head of school at Saint

to be educated in an environment that empha-

Mary’s Hall, explains, “The individualized and per-

sizes the religious and moral principles of our fam-

sonalized attention that a small school affords

ily — a school that reinforces, encourages and

parents and students is really one of the most

upholds the same values that we teach at home.

outstanding benefits of a private school. But also,

We want our children to see in everyday life that

we aren’t governed by the same minimum stan-

discipline, respect for others and one’s self, ap-

dards and the set curriculum of public schools.

propriate language and behavior are still the norm

We have an accrediting body that holds us ac-

among educated, moral, productive people.

countable, of course, and we are held to the high-

Being a person of faith is appreciated and valued,

est of educational standards. We offer the same

not only by the teachers but other students at her

core courses that public schools do. However,

school; sadly, that’s not always true in other set-

we’re also able to introduce curriculum that most

tings,” explains Anna’s mother.

public schools don’t offer — like philosophy and

Some parents want their children to be educated in a specific kind of parochial setting that

Lutheran High School

other subjects.”

Eades also highlighted the beauty and quality

they had when they were children. For example,

of his school’s facilities, but most of all he stressed

some Catholic families value a Catholic education

the well-being of students. “It’s our job here to

like they and their parents had before them.

cultivate relationships together with families to

Father Dennis Darilek of St. James Catholic

help students maximize their intellectual, spiritual,

Church in Seguin explains, “Catholic schools

artistic and athletic potential. Saint Mary’s Hall cel-

have a mission to provide a learning environ-

ebrates the core values of honesty, respect for self

ment where children not only learn God-cen-

and others, fair play, appreciation of diversity and

tered Catholic Christian principles, but how to

service to the community. Each student’s aca-

live those principles in the classroom and at

demic and personal growth is the school’s pas-

home. St. James Catholic School has a motto:

sion and utmost priority,” he says.

Keystone

‘Keeping God in everything we do.’ A Catholic school tries to meet the spiritual, intellectual,

Co-ed vs. same-sex environments

personal, social, physical and emotional needs

Sometimes children will study more, are less

of students while preparing them to assume

easily distracted and feel less self-conscious

their roles as Christians in the world today and

when they are in a classroom with children of their

in the future.”

own sex, so some local private schools, like In-

Buckner Fanning Christian School

july/august 2013 |

103

carnate Word High School, Providence Catholic

ing challenge like dyslexia,

smaller private

School, Central Catholic High School and San

schools are often able to adapt to the specific

Antonio Academy, offer all-girl or all-boy settings.

special needs of students.

Still, some families feel that learning is also about socialization and that getting along with members

Sports rule

of the opposite sex is important, so many local

There is often a misconception that private

private schools are co-educational. Parents need

schools don’t offer enough sports and other ex-

to decide which environment best meets their

tracurricular activities. However, most private

child’s learning style and needs.

schools in our area have football, basketball, soccer, softball and more and compete with

Language learning

other private schools’ teams across the city and

In a world that is growing ever more con-

state. Drama, debate teams, service organiza-

nected to other countries and cultures through

tions and more are offered, as well as cheerlead-

the Internet, travel, and international business op-

ing, 4-H, Scouts, band, and choir — just like in

tions, foreign language instruction will give stu-

public schools.

Saint Mary’s Hall

dents more career options for the future. Some private schools in our area offer half- and full-day

But can we afford a private school?

programs in languages other than English, such

If you think private schools are only for

as Spanish, French or even Mandarin Chinese.

wealthy families, think again! Many local private

Using language immersion methods, students in-

schools offer scholarships, grants and other finan-

tegrate language learning into their daily lives in a

cial aid for tuition. In fact, Saint Mary’s Hall offers

way that seems natural and easy.

just over $1 million in financial aid to students,

Sunshine Cottage

making their population socioeconomically di-

Preparation for college

verse. Even smaller private schools in our area

Many local private schools claim outstanding

offer financial assistance. Many give a discount to

records of college placement and even provide

families who send more than one student to their

counseling and programs to assist students in ac-

school, and some church-based schools offer

ceptance at prestigious universities. Most offer

lower tuition rates to members of their church,

college preparatory coursework, college-credit

synod or parish. If you think you can’t afford pri-

and dual-participation high school classes and

vate tuition, you should visit the school’s website

SAT/ACT testing prep courses. Some offer after-

or sit down with an admissions counselor — you

school volunteer programs, mentoring programs

may be surprised by what you learn about finan-

and internships. Many offer travel opportunities

cial options available to you.

TMI

with parents and teachers to see museums and sites in Washington, D.C., New York and Europe.

A private decision

Even mission trips to Honduras, Costa Rica or

Whether you’re a parent solidly committed to

countries in Africa have been options. Many

a public school education for your child, or

schools have clubs and service organizations that

you’re a parent considering enrolling your child

help students to become more “globally con-

in a private school, the decision is a deeply per-

scious” citizens — a quality that many recruiters

sonal one. Don’t be swayed by the opinions of

consider when determining college acceptance.

others. Do your homework — get to know the educational options available in San Antonio,

Special needs

and make the decision that is best for your child.

Not all children are the same, and not all chil-

There are few things in life more important to his

dren learn the same way. Whether a student has

or her future than a quality education offered by

a physical challenge, an emotional one, or a learn-

a loving parent.

San Antonio Academy

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EDITOR W

july/august 2013 |

105

Directory of San Antonio Area

2013-2014

Private Schools Acorn School Preschool – Kindergarten 3501 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 826-8804 Contacts: Rich Lange and Jo Mrvichin www.theacornschool.net

The Atonement Academy PK – 12th 15415 Red Robin Rd. San Antonio, TX 78255 (210) 695-2240 Contact: Mary Havel www.atonementonline.com

Bracken Christian School PK – 12th 670 Old Boerne Rd. Bulverde, TX 78163 (830) 438-3211 Contact: Judy Engberg www.brackenchristian.com

Antioch Christian Academy K-6th Elementary School 227 Eross San Antonio, TX 78202 (210) 222-0159 Contact: Christina Boswell www.antiochsat.org/christianacademy.htm

Blessed Hope Academy High School 4930 Research Dr. San Antonio, TX 78240 (210) 697-9191 Contact: Alice Ashcraft www.blessedhopeacademy.com

Brighton Center Special Needs School 14207 Higgins Rd. San Antonio, TX 78217 (210) 826-4492 Contact: Irma Bustos www.brightonsa.org

Blessed Sacrament Catholic School PK – 8th 600 Oblate Dr. San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 824-3381 Contact: Michael Fierro www.blessedschool.com

The Buckner Fanning Christian School at Mission Springs PK – 8th 975 Mission Springs San Antonio, TX 78258 (210) 402-6905 Contact: Diane Dunn www.bucknerfanningschool.org

Antonian College Preparatory High School 6425 West Ave. San Antonio, TX 78213 (210) 344-9265 Contact: Gilbert Saenz www.antonian.org

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Trinity Christian Academy

Calvary Chapel Christian Academy K – 12th 2935 Pat Booker Rd., Ste. 118 Universal City, TX 78148 (210) 658-8337 Contact: Will Shank www.calvarysa.com/CCCA Castle Hills First Baptist School PK – 12th 2220 N.W. Military Hwy. San Antonio, TX 78213 (210) 377-8485 Contact: Dr. Jen Bazar www.chfbs.org/school Central Catholic High School 1403 N. St. Mary’s San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 225-6794, ext. 217 Contact: Terrie Carter www.cchs-satx.org CHILD Montessori School Ages 2 – 5th grade 2829 Hunters Green St. San Antonio, TX 78231 (210) 493-6550 Contact: Jean Stein, director www.childmontessori.org

Christian Academy of San Antonio PK – 12th 325 Castroville Rd. San Antonio, TX 78207 (210) 436-2277 (Elementary) (210) 431-7355 (High School) Contact: Yolanda Molina www.christianacademysa.org The Circle School Ages 5-8 (non-graded) 217 Pershing Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-0461 Contact: Blanca Lee Luna www.thecircleschool.org Colonial Hills United Methodist School Pre-Kindergarten – Kindergarten 5247 Vance Jackson San Antonio, TX 78230 (210) 349-1092 Contact: Lisa Miele www.colonialhills.info Concordia Lutheran School PK – 8th 16801 Huebner Rd. San Antonio, TX 78258 (210) 479-1477 Contact: Sally McBee www.clssatx.com

Converse Christian School and Learning Center PK – 1st 9146 FM 78 San Antonio, TX 78109 (210) 659-0203 Cornerstone Christian School K – 12 4802 Vance Jackson San Antonio, TX 78230 (210) 979-6161 (Elementary) (210) 979-9203 (High School) Contact: Yoli Villarreal www.sa-ccs.org/home/

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107

St. Matthew Catholic School

Crossroads Christian Academy PK – 6th 5834 Ray Ellison Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78242 (210) 623-4500 Contact: Stephanie Alvarez www.wherelifechanges.com/academy

Geneva School of Boerne K – 12th 113 Cascade Caverns Rd. Boerne, TX 78015 (830) 755-6101 Contact: Mrs. Gay Young www.genevaschooltx.org

Discovery School of San Antonio Inc. PK – 1st 222 Salem Dr. San Antonio, TX 78201 (210) 344-3472 Contact: Mary Stanchak mydiscoveryschool.com

The George Gervin Academy Remedial School 6944 South Sunbelt Dr. San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 568-8800 Contact: Jesse Villanueva www.gervin-school.org

Eisenhauer Road Baptist School PK – 6th 3950 Eisenhauer Rd. San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 655-6831 www.erbcsa.org/cms/index.php/school Eleanor Kolitz Academy K – 8th 12500 N.W. Military Hwy., Ste. 150 San Antonio, TX 78231 (210) 302-6900 Contact: Kathryn Davis www.eka-sa.org

108 | sawoman.com

First Baptist Academy PK – 12th 1401 Pat Booker Rd. Universal City, TX 78148 (210) 658-5331 Contact: Teri Flynn www.fbauc.com

Grace Christian School K – 12th 7760 Prue Rd. San Antonio, TX 78249 (210) 265-8166 Contact: Veronica Garza www.gracechristianschool-sa.com

Gateway Christian School K – 12th 6623 Five Palms San Antonio, TX 78242 (210) 674-5703, ext. 35 Contact: Roger Gaines www.gw-school.org

Hill Country Montessori School Ages 18 months – 12 years 50 Stone Wall Dr. Boerne, TX 78006 (830) 229-5377 Contact: Michele Fischer www.hcmontessori.org

Holy Cross of San Antonio High School Middle and High School 426 N. San Felipe San Antonio, TX 78228 (210) 433-9395 Contact: Eddie Cedillo www.holycross-sa.com Holy Name Catholic School K – 8th 3814 Nash Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78223 (210) 333-7356 Contact: Chad Mills www.holynamesa.org Holy Spirit Catholic School K – 8th 770 W. Ramsey San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 349-1169 Contact: Lisa Roosevelt www.hscssa.org Holy Trinity Presbyterian Day School Ages 6 weeks – third grade 16245 Nacogdoches Rd. San Antonio, TX 78247 (210) 599-7640 Contact: Dorothy Colts-Tegg www.holytrinitypres.org/school

Incarnate Word High School 727 E. Hildebrand San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 829-3100 Contact: Annette Zahirniak www.incarnatewordhs.org

Lutheran High School of San Antonio 18104 Babcock Rd. San Antonio, TX 78255 (210) 694-4962 Contact: Linda Roese www.lhssa.org

John Paul II Catholic High School 6720 FM 482 New Braunfels, TX 78132 (830) 643-0802 Contact: Andrew Iliff www.johnpaul2chs.org

MacArthur Park Lutheran Preschool 2903 Nacogdoches Rd. San Antonio, TX 78217 (210) 822-5374 Contact: Carla Lockett www.macparkschool.org

Keystone School K – 12th 119 E. Craig Pl. San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 735-4022, ext. 325 Contact: Zina Wormley www.keystoneschool.org

Maranatha Adventist School K – 8th 2526 Goliad Rd. San Antonio, TX 78223 (210) 333-8861 Contact: Rebecka Sauls www.maranathasdaschool.org

Little Flower Catholic School K – 8th 905 Kentucky Ave. San Antonio, TX 78201 (210) 732-9207 Contact: Rita Graves www.littleflowerschool.net

Monarch Academy Special Needs 5235 David Edwards Drive San Antonio, TX 78233 (210) 479-3311 Contact: Elisa Espitia www.monarchacademy.net

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109

Montessori Earth School Ages 18 months – 2nd grade 4911 Golden Quail Rd. San Antonio, TX 78240 (210) 558-8339 Contact: Verna Gabriel www.montessoriearthschool.com

Mount Sacred Heart School Ages 2 ½ – 8th grade 619 Mount Sacred Heart Rd. San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 342-6711 Contact: Maria Casto www.mountsacredheart.com

New Life Christian Academy PK – 12th 6622 Hwy. 90 West San Antonio, TX 78227 (210) 679-6001 Contact: Nicole Rodriguez www.newlifeca.org

Montessori School Int’l Ages 18 months – 10 years 8222 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, TX 78229 (210) 614-1665 www.msitexas.com

New Braunfels Christian Academy Pre-K and Elementary: 995 Mission Hills Dr. New Braunfels, TX 78130 (830) 629-6222 Contact: Carolyn Alsobooks www.nbchristianacademy.org

Northwest Hills Christian School K – 8th 8511 Heath Circle Dr. San Antonio, TX 78250 (210) 522-1103 Contact: Alma Dowdle www.nwhcs.org

New Braunfels Christian Academy Middle and High School 220 FM 1863 New Braunfels, TX 78132 (830) 629-1821 Contact: Karen Shumway www.nbchristianacademy.org

Our Lady of Perpetual Help School K – 8th 16075 N. Evans Rd. Selma, TX 78154 (210) 651-6811 Contact: Jacqueline Palermo www.olphselma.org

New Hope Christian Academy PK – 12th 4402 Spear Head San Antonio, TX 78238 (210) 431-8809 Contact: Hilda Rodriguez

Palm Heights Christian Academy PK – 8th 1106 W. Malone San Antonio, TX 78225 (210) 923-8600 Contact: Mark Manuel

Montessori Schoolhouse Ages 18 months – 12 years 10711 Dreamland Dr. San Antonio, TX 78230 (210) 341-0731 Contact: Luz Migdalia Ponce www.mymontessorischoolhouse.com The Montessori School of San Antonio Ages 3-14 17722 Rogers Ranch Pkwy.

San Antonio, TX 78258 (210) 492-3553 Contact: Emily Lund www.montessorisa.org

110 | sawoman.com

Primrose School at Cibolo Canyons Preschool 3330 TPC Pkwy.

San Antonio, TX 78261 (210) 479-7099 Contact: Jeanine Valle www.primroseschools.com/schools/cibolocanyons Providence Catholic School The College Preparatory School for Girls Grade 6-12 1215 N. St. Mary’s St. San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 224-6651, ext. 210 Contact: Stephanie Takas-Mercer www.providencehs.net Rainbow Hills Baptist School K – 12th 2255 Horal Dr. San Antonio, TX 78227 Elementary: (210) 674-0490 Contact: Angela Stewart Jr./Sr. High: (210) 645-4081 Contact: Pedro Garza www.rainbowhillsschool.net

River City Believers Academy K – 12th 16765 Lookout Rd. Selma, TX 78154 (210) 656-2999 Contact: Shane Land www.rcbaonline.com

Saint Mary’s Hall K – 12th 9401 Starcrest San Antonio, TX 78217 (210) 483-9100 Contact: Julie Helimund www.smhall.org

River City Christian School K – 12th 5810 Blanco Rd. San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 384-0297 Contact: Susie West www.rivercitychristianschool.com

St. Andrew’s Weekday School and Great Beginnings PK – Kindergarten 722 Robinhood Pl. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-8737 Contact: Kay Osborn www.standrewsumcschool.org

Rolling Hills Academy K – 8th 21240 Gathering Oak San Antonio, TX 78260 (210) 497-0323 Contact: Erin Grosso www.rollinghillscatholic.org Royal Point Academy K – 4th 9965 Kriewald Rd. San Antonio, TX 78245 (210) 674-5310 Contact: Veronica Pena www.royalpointacademy.com

St. Anthony Catholic High School 3200 McCullough Ave. San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 832-5600 Contact: Benita Vance www.sachs.org St. Anthony Elementary School 205 W. Huisache San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 732-8801 Contact: Mary Martinez www.stanthonysa.org

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St. Cecilia School PK – 8th 118 Lowell San Antonio, TX 78210 (210) 534-2711 Contact: Mary Crow www.stceciliasatx.com

St. Gregory the Great School PK – 8th 700 Dewhurst San Antonio, TX 78213 (210) 342-0281 Contact: Kay Hanson www.stgregorys.net

St. Leo the Great Catholic School PK – 8th 119 Octavia Pl. San Antonio, TX 78214 (210) 532-3166 Contact: Carol Johnson www.stleothegreatschool.net

St. David’s Episcopal School Ages 16 months – Kindergarten 1300 Wiltshire San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-2481 Contact: Bonnie Babbitt www.saintdavidschool.net

St. James the Apostle Catholic School PK – 8th 907 West Theo Ave. San Antonio, TX 78225 (210) 924-1201 Contact: Ignacia Carillo www.stjamescatholicschool.org

St. Luke Catholic School PK – 8th 4603 Manitou San Antonio, TX 78228 (210) 434-2011 Contact: Dora Calderon www.stlukecatholic.org

St. George Episcopal School PK – 8th 6900 West Ave. San Antonio, TX 78213 (210) 342-4263 Contact: Melissa Patterson www.saintgeorgeschool.org St. Gerard Catholic High School 521 S. New Braunfels Ave. San Antonio, TX 78203 (210) 533-8061 Contact: Peter Rivera www.stgerardsa.org

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St. John Berchmans School PK – 8th 1147 Cupples Rd. San Antonio, TX 78226 (210) 433-0411 Contact: Beverly Abbott www.sjbschool-sa.com St. John Bosco Elementary School PK – 8th 5630 W. Commerce San Antonio, TX 78237 (210) 432-8011 Contact: Sr. Rosann Ruiz www.stjohnbosco-satx.org

St. Luke’s Episcopal School PK – 8th 11 St. Luke’s Ln. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 826-0664 Contact: Steve Bradley www.sles-sa.org St. Margaret Mary Catholic School PK – 8th 1202 Fair Ave. San Antonio, TX 78223 (210) 534-6137 Contact: Ramon Guerra www.stmmcs.org

St. Mary Magdalen Catholic School PK – 8th 1700 Clower St. San Antonio, TX 78201 (210) 735-1381 Contact: Mary Macias www.stmmsa.org

St. Paul’s Episcopal Montessori School Ages 18 months – 12 years 1018 E. Grayson St. San Antonio, TX 78208 (210) 271-2861 Contact: Kay Karcher Mijangos www.stpauls-satx.org

St. Thomas Episcopal School PK – 5th 1416 N. Loop 1604 E. San Antonio, TX 78232 (210) 494-3509 Contact: Robin Rosen www.stthomaskids.com

St. Matthew Catholic School PK – 8th 10703 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, TX 78230 (210) 478-5099 Contact: Alvin Caro www.stmatts.org

St. Peter, Prince of the Apostles School PK – 8th 112 Marcia Pl. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-3171 Contact: Yvette Mireles www.stpeterprince.org

St. Thomas More School PK – 8th 4427 Moana Dr. San Antonio, TX 78218 (210) 655-2882 Contact: Mirella Kennedy www.st-thomas-more-school.org

St. Monica Catholic School PK – 8th 515 North St. Converse, TX 78109 (210) 658-6701 Contact: JoAnn Wood www.saintmonica.net

St. Philip of Jesus School K - 8th 134 E. Lambert San Antonio, TX 78204 (210) 222-2872 Contact: Serena De La Cruz spjsa.weebly.com

Salem Sayers Baptist Academy PK – 12th 5212 FM 1628 Adkins, TX 78101 (210) 649-1178 Contact: Teresa Sandoval www.salemsayers.org

St. Paul Catholic School PK – 8th 307 John Adams Dr. San Antonio, TX 78228 (210) 732-2741 Contact: Colleen Hermes www.stpaulroyals.org

St. Pius X School PK – 8th 7734 Robin Rest San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-6431 Contact: Tom Deming www.stpiusxsa.org/school

San Antonio Academy of Texas PK – 8th 117 E. French Pl. San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 733-7331 Contact: Mary Wilde www.sa-academy.org

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San Antonio Christian Schools PK – 12th 19202 Redland Rd. San Antonio, TX 78259 (210) 340-1864 Contact: Rusty Sugg www.sachristianschools.org

Sunnybrook Christian Academy PK – 12th 1620 Pinn Rd. San Antonio, TX 78227 (210) 674-8000 Contact: James Hatch www.sunnybrooklions.com

Trinity Christian Academy K – 12th 5401 N. Loop 1604 East San Antonio, TX 78247 (210) 653-2800 Contact: Registrar www.trinitychristianacademy-sa.com

San Antonio Country Day Montessori School Ages 2 ½ years – 6th grade 4194 Jung Rd. San Antonio, TX 78247 (210) 496-6033 Contact: Carol Ann Wearden www.countrydayschool.net

Sunshine Cottage for Deaf Children PK – 5th 603 E. Hildebrand San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 824-0579 Contact: Dr. Nancy Henderson www.sunshinecottage.org

Trinity United Methodist School PK – 5th 5319 Newcome Dr. San Antonio, TX 78229 (210) 684-5214 Contact: Debra Schneider www.trinityums.org

TMI — The Episcopal School of Texas 6th – 12th 20955 West Tejas Tr. San Antonio, TX 78257 (210) 698-7171 Contact: Brenda Klastenegger www.tmi-sa.org

Village Parkway Christian School PK – 5th 3002 Village Pkwy.

San Antonio, TX 78251 (210) 680-8187 www.villageparkwaychristian.net

Scenic Hills Christian SDA PK – 9th 11223 Bandera Rd. San Antonio, TX 78250 (210) 523-2312 Contact: Sherry Clapp www.scenichillsschool.org Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran School PK – 8th 6914 Wurzbach Rd. San Antonio, TX 78240 (210) 614-3741 Contact: Sue Gary www.shlutheran.org

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Town East Christian School PK – 12th 2030 Bible Blvd.

San Antonio, TX 78220 (210) 648-2601 Contact: J.D. King www.teeagles.org

The Winston School San Antonio PK – 12th 8565 Ewing Halsell Dr. San Antonio, TX 78229 (210) 615-6544 Contact: Julie Saboe www.winston-sa.org

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W ARTBEAT

A CONFIDENT AND FRIENDLy LEADER Yonnie Blanchette takes charge at the Carver Community Cultural Center

By Jasmina Wellinghoff, Senior Writer

T

Photography by Janet Rogers

he Carver Community Cultural Cen-

who attended always had positive comments.”

matinees for area school children and master

ter has just wrapped up the 2012-13

That’s hardly surprising since the Carver

classes for upcoming talent. In addition, a vari-

season, and executive director Yon-

is the only local presenter that brings to town

ety of San Antonio performing arts groups rent

top-notch performers from around the

the Carver for their own shows.

nie Blanchette couldn’t be more pleased.

“I think it was a great season; at least that

United States and abroad while keeping

Renovated and expanded in the early

was the feedback that I got from everybody,”

ticket prices in the affordable range. Besides

2000s, the center actually consists of three

says Blanchette, who has led the venerable

the already mentioned artists, the season in-

buildings: the familiar old edifice facing North

East Side institution since 2007. “I get com-

cluded the Royal Drummers and Dancers of

Hackberry Street that houses the 650-seat

ments from audience members all the time,

Burundi; soul legend Bettye LaVette; bassist,

Jo Long Theater, the smaller Little Carver

which is wonderful because how would you

composer and Grammy winner Christian

Civic Center behind it that hosts smaller

otherwise know what people enjoyed? Our

McBride; Texas favorite Terri Hendrix, and

shows and all sorts of gatherings, and an of-

best-sellers were probably the opening show,

two remarkable contemporary dance groups

fice structure across the street. Altogether,

Poncho Sanchez (and his Latin Jazz Trio), and

— Minneapolis-based TU Dance and Philadel-

some 300 events are held annually at the

(singer) Aaron Neville’s Christmas show. But

phia’s popular Philadanco.

center, and approximately 6,000 children at-

even when a show didn’t sell that well, people

118 | sawoman.com

Almost all visiting artists also offer youth

tend the youth matinees. There is also a year-

ARTBEAT W round visual and performing arts school for both kids and adults.

Over all of that presides a woman who had no background in the arts when she took the job of interim director in 2007. (It became

Blanchette poses in the lobby of the Carver Community Cultural Center. It’s where artists come after their performance to chat and take pictures with patrons.

permanent a year later.) A retired Air Force lieutenant colonel, Blanchette was working in the city manager’s office when she was asked by her then-boss and former deputy city manager Jelynne Burley if she would consider taking the helm of the iconic cultural center, which is operated as a department of the City of San Antonio Convention, Sports and Entertainment Facilities.

“I thought of it as I did about assignments in the military,” explains Blanchette matter-of factly. “You are assigned to a new station, and you go and learn from the people already there.

nizational management.

“It’s a cozy, warm place,” she says. “When

That’s how it was here. I knew I would have a

But her face lights up when she talks

we had (vocalist and Grammy-winning actress)

pretty good staff. They are the reason I have

about her favorite assignment, a six-year stint

Jennifer Holliday here, she asked whether she

been successful.” Then she adds with a laugh:

at the Pentagon, where she served as a liaison

could go to dinner with my husband and me.

“I say I have been successful, since I haven’t

to the Defense Advisory Committee on

She was hungry. She got in the car with us, and

been fired yet.”

Women in the Services. The latter is a civilian

we ended up at Chili’s because that was one of

body that advises the military on all questions

the few places open that late at night. Then we

pertaining to military women.

dropped her off at her hotel, and I took her to

Though she did indeed learn from the staff the particulars of choosing and booking artists, she was confident that her experience in man-

“The Pentagon is a huge place with thou-

agement would see her through. By now, her

sands of people working there. It’s a hub for

annual trip to New York to attend the Associa-

all things Defense. It was an exciting place to

She’s just as friendly with patrons who ap-

tion of Performing Arts Presenters’ mini-festival

be; so much going on. It was all action,” says

proach her to talk and share their impressions

is her favorite part of the job. It’s an excellent

Blanchette, with a bit of that excitement still

after the shows. That’s another favorite aspect

place to get acquainted with the performing

tingeing her voice. “My husband says I am a

of the job. As she puts it, “handshakes turn into

arts world, as hundreds of artists present show-

type A person and that’s why I loved it,” she

hugs” and new friendships are born.

cases for the attendees day and night. Artist

laughs. It’s interesting to know that one of the

Though the Carver attracts audiences

management agencies also contact the Carver

issues the committee dealt with was sexual

from across San Antonio, Blanchette wants to

directly, offering to include San Antonio on

harassment, which has been in the news in a

extend an especially friendly hand to the sur-

their tours.

big way lately. But other issues have been re-

rounding community for whom the center has

“I look at all of that and eventually decide what to include in our season. Is the show good

the airport the next morning. All very informal and friendly!”

solved since, including allowing women to join

been a neighborhood hub for decades. “We

combat operations.

want to continue to be part of this commu-

for the Carver? Is it unique?” she says. “Our mis-

It was also in the military that she met her

nity, and we want to remain accessible by

sion is to have a diverse, multicultural and

husband, Stephen Blanchette, now a wealth

keeping things affordable,” says the woman

multinational programming with an emphasis

manager at USAA. They have two children. Nei-

who is credited with bringing stability to the

on African-American and African heritage, and

ther was ever deployed to a war zone because

Carver after several years of change and un-

it all has to fit into the budget.”

they served during a mostly peaceful period,

certainty. “It is my desire that this be the place

she notes. After completing their last assign-

where folks can come to see first-class artists

AFTER SEEINg THE WORLD,

ment here, the couple decided to make their

and programming.”

SHE CHOSE SAN ANTONIO

home in San Antonio.

A native of Clinton, N. C., teenaged Yon-

Her family, especially her husband, attend

nie went off to college believing she would

many shows at the Carver while she is, of

The Carver Community Cultural Center 2013-14 Season

get a degree in social work and return home

course, always there, keeping an eye on every-

to practice. But once in Greensboro, where

thing. With a relatively small staff of 11, every-

• Nai-Ni Chen and Ahn Trio – Nov. 16, 2013

she attended North Carolina A&T State Uni-

one is multitasking, including the director. The

• Black Violin – Dec. 6, 2013

versity, she had second thoughts. Inspired by

collaborative attitude certainly helps to build

• Luciana Souza – Jan. 18, 2014

a friend and the lure of exploring new hori-

bonds among staff members and with the vis-

zons, the young woman joined ROTC, receiv-

itors. There’s something about the atmosphere

ing a commission as a second lieutenant

at the Carver that makes people feel like they

upon graduation. For the next 20 years, she

are among family, observes Blanchette. Even

• Dr. Lonnie Smith – Jan. 31, 2014 • Rennie Harris Dance – Feb. 21, 2014 • “Raisin’ Cane” (featuring Jasmine Guy) – March 21, 2014 • San Francisco Jazz Collective – April 5, 2014

saw the world, earned a master’s in human

the most renowned performers come into the

• Jason Moran – May 17, 2014

relations, got married and acquired a wealth

lobby after their performance to chat and take

• Step Afrika! – June 7, 2014

of experience in personnel affairs and orga-

pictures with patrons.

july/august 2013 |

119

Entertainment & The Arts Events

Museum

Events

by Gregg Roth

itar Circus: Frampton’s Gu w/ on Peter Frampt epherd Sh ne ay W y Kenn tre ea Th Majestic pm 7/14 Sun, 7:30

Norman Rockwell: Behind the Cam era McNay Art Museum Thru 9/1

Music

Comedy

County Line BBQ Live Music Series Benefits the San Antonio Food Bank Thru 7/31 www.countyline.com

Ron White: A Little Unprofessional Majestic Theatre 8/3 Sat, 7, 9:30 pm

Frampton’s Guitar Circus: Peter Frampton w/ Kenny Wayne Shepherd Majestic Theatre 7/14 Sun, 7:30 pm Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Majestic Theatre 7/26 Fri, 8 pm An Intimate Evening with Clint Black: Acoustic Majestic Theatre 8/1 Thu, 8 pm Vans Warped Tour AT&T Center 8/3 www.attcenter.com Loretta Lynn Majestic Theatre 8/23 Fri, 8 pm 1964:The Tribute Majestic Theatre 9/7 Sat, 8 pm

Theater Standing in the Shadows of Love Mount Zion First Baptist Church Drama Ministry Josephine Street Theatre 7/14 and 7/21 Sun, 4 pm Ragtime The Playhouse Russell Hill Rogers Theater 7/26-8/18 Fri and Sat, 8 pm, Sun, 2:30 pm Port Cove Overtime Theater Thru July 27, Fri and Sat, 8 and 10 pm

120 | sawoman.com

Oxymorons River City Comedy Club Tuesdays, 8:30 pm www.rivercitycomedyclub.com Open Mic Night Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club Tuesdays 8 pm www.lolsanantonio.com

Art

SOUTHWEST SCHOOL OF ART

Fiesta Noc he del Rio Arneson Riv Thru Aug. 10er Theater Sat, 8:30 p. , Fri and m.

Norman Rockwell: Behind the Camera Thru 9/1 Majority Rules: A Decade of Contemporary Art Acquisitions Thru 9/15 SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART Pasión Popular: Spanish and Latin American Folk Art from Cecere Collection Thru 8/18 WITTE MUSEUM Patriotism and Pageantry: Fiesta Honors the Military Thru 8/18 Dinosaurs Unearthed: Bigger. Better. Feathered…

Thru 9/2

Vincent Colvin: Simultaneous Passage Blending Scapes of Land and Sea 7/18 – 8/23

Texas Impressionism: Branding with Brushstroke and Color, 1885-1935 Thru 9/8

SSA Teen Program: Bee Nation 7/18 - 8/25

Events

Museums

INSTITUTE OF TEXAN CULTURES Fiesta Medal Mania Thru 7/8 Girl Power!

In Partnership with Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas Thru 7/14 Texas Contemporary Artists Series: Pepe Serna Thru 9/1 Why We Came: The Immigration Experience Thru March 2014 MCNAY ART MUSEUM Catherine Lee: Alice Begins August 2013

The World Through Magic Lanterns Thru 1/2014

Cactus Pear Music Festival 5 Programs, 3 Cities and 15 Exceptional Artists 7/5-14 www.cpmf.us Berto vs. Soto AT&T Center 7/27 Sat, 6:30 pm Concert under the Stars Botanical Gardens 7/11t, 8/8 Thurs 6pm Fiesta Noche del Rio Arneson River Theater Thru Aug. 10, Fri and Sat, 8:30 p.m.

W

july/august 2013 |

121

W FOOD & WINE

American

BIGA ON THE BANKS BIRD BAKERY BOARDWALK BISTRO BOUDRO’S CAPPY’S CAPPYCCINO’S BISTRO CYPRESS GRILL ANNE MARIES’S BISTRO SAN ANTONIO CAFÉ CHEESECAKE FACTORY THE GRILL AT LEON SPRINGS GUENTHER HOUSE HOULIHAN'S J. ALEXANDER’S JOSEPHINE STREET KONA GRILL LIBERTY BAR MADRID ROOM MAGIC TIME MACHINE MAMA'S CAFE RAINFOREST CAFÉ SCENIC LOOP CAFE SILO ELEVATED CUISINE STONE WERKS VINEYARD ZEDRICK’S

203 S. St. Mary’s 225-0722 5912 Broadway 804-2473 4011 Broadway 824-0100 314 E. Commerce 224-1313 5011 Broadway 828-9669 5003 Broadway 828-6860 170 S. Main St., #A, Boerne (830) 248-1353 555 Funston Place 826-5800 1150 S. Alamo 271-7791 7400 San Pedro 798-0769 24116 IH-10 W. 698-8797 205 E. Guenther 227-1061 14601 IH-35 N. 651-4744 385 N. Loop 1604 W. 494-3371 555 E. Basse 824-0275 400 E. Josephine 224-6169 15900 La Cantera Pkwy 877-5355 1111 S. Alamo 227-1187 300 E. Travis 227-4392 902 N.E. Loop 410 828-1470 2442 Nacogdoches 826-8303 7929 Pat Booker Rd 653-2002 517 N. Presa 223-3297 25615 Boerne Stage Rd. 687-1818 1133 Austin Highway 824-8686 434 N. Loop 1604 483-8989 Broadway at Basse 823-3508 27315 FM 3009 (830) 980-8033 5231 Broadway 824-6000

Asian

HSIU YU ILSONG GARDEN INDIA OVEN INDIA PALACE KOI KAWA MENCIUS’S GOURMET MON THAI BISTRO P. F. CHANG’S SUSHIHANA SUSHI ZUSHI

TAIPEI THAI KITCHEN THAI LAO RESTAURANT TOKYO STEAK HOUSE TONG’S THAI

RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE

TWO BROTHERS BBQ

122 | sawoman.com

1289 S.W. Loop 410 2815 N. Loop 1604 121 Alamo Plaza

674-0019 545-0666 212-8698

European Crumpets 3920 Harry Wurzbach San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 821-5600 ANAQUA GRILL BISTRO VATEL BOARDWALK BISTRO CITRUS COCO CHOCOLATE CRUMPETS FIG TREE FREDERICK’S FREDERICK’S BISTRO THE GAZEBO AT LOS PATIOS HOUSTON STREET BISTRO LAS CANARIAS LA FRITE BELGIAN BISTRO LION & ROSE ENGLISH PUB

555 S. Alamo 218 E. Olmos 4011 Broadway 150 E. Houston 18402 Hwy. 281,#114 3920 Harry Wurzbach 515 Villita 7701 Broadway 14439 N.W. Military #100 2015 N.E. Loop 410 204 E. Houston 112 College 728 S. Alamo 5148 Broadway 842 N.W. Loop 410 700 E. Sonterra Blvd.

125 E. Houston 923 N. Loop 1604 E. 234 Riverwalk

229-1000 828-3141 824-0100 227-9700 491-4480 821-5454 224-1976 828-9050 888-1500 655-6171 476-8600 518-1000 224-7555 822-7673 798-4154 798-5466 227-5853 690-5811 229-9299

Hamburgers

741 W. Ashby Pl 10103 Huebner Road 4531 N.W. Loop 410 1011 N. E. Loop 410 9030 Wurzbach 8822 Wurzbach 8230 Marbach 8338 Broadway 6905 Blanco Rd. 1031 Patricia 8440 Fredericksburg 4051 Broadway 7959 Fredericksburg 4901 Broadway 255 E. Basse 15900 La Cantera Pkwy 1810 N.W. Military IH-10 W. and Wurzbach 203 S. St. Mary’s 999 E. Basse 18720 Stone Oak 2211 N.W. Military 18802 Stone Oak 445 McCarty 126 W. Rector 9405 San Pedro 1146 Austin Highway

733-8473 340-7944 340-7944 828-9988 615-7553 615-8282 674-2577 828-2273 366-4508 366-1033 692-5262 805-8111 615-1288 822-3253 507-1000 507-6500 340-7808 691-3332 472-2900 826-8500 545-6100 366-3012 403-3316 344-8366 524-9908 341-4461 829-7345

Barbecue

BUN ‘N’ BARREL THE BARBEQUE STATION CHIT CHAT BBQ THE COUNTY LINE

ACADIANA BOURBON STREET SEAFOOD PAT O’BRIEN’S

LÜKE MESON EUROPEAN DINING WAXY O’CONNOR’S

Hsiu Yu 8338 Broadway St San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 828-2273 BIG KAHUNAS CHINA BISTRO DING HOW FORMOSA GARDENS FUJIYA GOLDEN WOK

Cajun/Creole

1150 Austin Hwy. 610 N.E. Loop 410 218 N. Cherry 111 W. Crockett 10101 I-10 W. 24152 IH-10 W. 15560 I-35 N. 10623 Westover Hills 12656 West Ave .

828-2829 691-3332 271-2888 229-1491 641-1998 698-2141 653-7839 520-5552 496-0222

BIG’Z BURGER JOINT BOBBY J’S BUCKHORN SALOON BURGER BOY CHRIS MADRID’S CHEESY JANE’S CHESTER’S HAMBURGERS

FATTY’S FUDDRUCKERS GOURMET BURGER GRILL LONGHORN CAFE MO MAK’S RED ROBIN SAM’S BURGER JOINT TEXAS HAMBURGER CO

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8602 Botts Ln. 18414 Hwy. 281 N. 17625 Blanco Rd. 13838 Jones Maltsberger.

1750 N. 1604 330 E. Grayson St. 9010 Huebner Rd.

408-2029 695-4941 247-4000 735-1955 735-3552 826-0800 805-8600 699-1222 494-3333 658-3000 299-8110 223-9944 824-6703 545-3800 492-0301 481-3600 494-2500 223-2830 699-1189

Italian Scuzzi’s 4035 N Loop 1604 W San Antonio, TX (210) 493-8884 ALDINO AT THE VINEYARD ALDO'S RISTORANTE BRAVO CUCINA ITALIANA CAPPARELLI’S ON MAIN CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL CERRONI’S PURPLE GARLIC DOUGH PIZZERIA IL SOGNO OSTERIA LORENZO’S

1203 N. Loop 1604 W. 8539 Fredericksburg 15900 La Cantera Pkwy.

2524 N. Main 12507 IH-10 W. 1017 Austin Hwy. 6989 Blanco 200 E. Grayson, #100 8032 Fredericksburg Rd.

340-0000 696-2536 877-9300 735-5757 694-4191 822-2300 979-6363 223-3900 692-9900

FOOD & WINE W

LA FOCACCIA ITALIAN GRILL LITTLE ITALY LUCE RISTORANTE E ENOTECA LUCIANO’S MICHELINO’S MILANO RISTORANTE PAESANOS

PIATTI PICCOLO’S POMPEII ITALIAN GRILL RISTORANTE LUCIANO SCUZZI’S ITALIAN GRILL TRE TRATTORIA

800 S. Alamo 824 Afterglow 11255 Huebner 849 E. Commerce 401 South Alamo 521 River Walk 11802 Wurzbach 1907 Nacogdoches 555 E. Basse 111 W. Crockett Loop 1604 at N.W. Military 255 E. Basse 5703 Evers Rd. 16019 Nacogdoches 7400 San Pedro 4035 N. 1604 W. 4003 Broadway 401 S. Alamo

223-5353 349-2060 561-9700 223-0500 888-7030 223-2939 493-3611 821-6373 828-5191 227-2782 493-1604 832-0300 647-5524 946-5518 377-0022 493-8884 805-0333 223-0401

Pizza

CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN FLORIO’S PIZZA GRIMALDI’S PIZZA GUILLERMO’S MISS ELLIE’S SORRENTO TRILOGY PIZZA BISTRO VOLARE GOURMET PIZZA

11745 IH-10 W. 255 E. Basse Rd. 7701 Broadway 330 E. Basse, #101 618 McCullough 903 E. Bitters Rd 5146 Broadway 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

5054 Broadway

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Seafood Mediterranean

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7115 Blanco 2501 N. St. Mary’s 555 Bitters 12651 Vance Jackson 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

5440 Babcock Rd. 16602 San Pedro 7159 W US Hiwy 90 8250 Agora Pkwy., #120 255 E. Basse, #384 11224 Huebner, #201

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Southwestern CALIZA GRILL CANYON CAFE FRANCESCA’S AT SUNSET ORO RESTAURANT AND BAR

420 W. Market 225 E. Basse 16641 La Cantera Pkwy.

705 E. Houston

224-6500 225-0722 558-6500 225-5100

Mexican/Latin El Jarro 13421 San Pedro San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 494-5084 ÁCENAR MODERN TEX-MEX AJUÚA! CUISINE DE MEXICO ALAMO CAFÉ ALDACO'S AZUCA NUEVO LATINO CASA RIO BETO’S CIELITO LINDO EL CHAPARRAL EL JARRO DE ARTURO EL MIRADOR EL MIRASOL ALTA COCINA FRIDA’S MEXICAN CUISINE IRON CACTUS MEXICAN GRILL LA FOGATA LA FONDA ON MAIN LA FONDA SUNSET RIDGE LA FONDA OAK HILLS LA HACIENDA DE LOS BARRIOS LA MARGARITA LOS BARRIOS MAMACITA’S MI TIERRA CAFE AND BAKERY ORIGINAL MEXICAN PALOMA BLANCA PALOMA RIVER WALK PAPPASITO’S CANTINA PERICO’S BAR AND GRILL PICANTE GRILL PICO DE GALLO RIO RIO CANTINA ROSARIO’S SALSALITO’S SAZO’S LATIN GRILL SOLUNA COCINA MEXICANA TOMATILLOS CANTINA URBAN TACO

Soul Food MAMA LEE'S SOUL FOOD

146 E. Houston 11703 Huebner 10060 IH-10 W. 14250 San Pedro 100 Hoefgen 20079 Stone Oak Pkwy.

713 S. Alamo 430 E. Commerce 8421 Broadway 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

15103 Bandera 2838 N. Loop 1604 13421 San Pedro 722 S. St. Mary’s 13489 Blanco 3023 Thousand Oaks 200 River Walk 2427 Vance Jackson 2415 N. Main 6402 N. New Braunfels 350 Northaven 18747 Redland Rd. 120 Produce Row 4223 Blanco 8030 IH-10 W. 218 Produce Row 528 River Walk 5800 Broadway 215 Losoya 10501 IH-10 W. 10820 Bandera 1439 E. Sonterra Blvd.

3810 Broadway 111 S. Leona 421 E. Commerce 910 S. Alamo 14535 Nacogdoches 11523 Bandera 101 Bowie 7959 Broadway 3210 Broadway 290 E. Basse, #105

222-2362 877-0600 691-8827 495-2233 222-0561 494-0561 225-5550 225-6718 930-9393 545-6965 695-8302 490-8302 494-5084 225-9444 479-8765 496-3023 224-9835 340-1337 733-0621 824-4231 342-8981 497-8000 227-7140 732-6017 341-5424 225-1262 224-9951 822-6151 212-0566 691-8974 684-5376 402-6006 822-3797 225-6060 226-8462 223-1806 646-8088 558-6788 223-1000 930-8070 824-3005 332-5149

6060 Montgomery

653-6262

Steaks Chama Gaucha 18318 Sonterra Place San Antonio, TX 78258 (210) 564-9400

Fleming’s 255 East Basse Rd. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-9463 ANTLERS LODGE THE BARN DOOR BOLO’S ROTISSERIE GRILLE CHAUMA GAUCHA FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE GREY MOSS INN KIRBY’S STEAKHOUSE LITTLE RHEIN STEAKHOUSE MORTON’S STEAKHOUSE MYRON’S STEAKHOUSE OUNCE STEAKHOUSE THE PALM PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE RUTH'S CHRIS

9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. 8400 N. New Braunfels 9821 Colonnade 18318 Sonterra Place 255 E. Basse 10901 Scenic Loop 123 N. Loop 1604 E. 231 S. Alamo 849 E. Commerce 10003 NW Military 1401 N. Loop 1604 W. 233 E. Houston 15900 LaCantera Pkwy 7720 Jones Maltsberger 1170 E. Commerce

520-4001 824-0116 691-8888 564-9400 824-9463 695-8301 404-2221 225-1212 228-0700 493-3031 493-6200 226-7256 558-6161 821-5051 227-8847

Enhance your listing!

Call (210) 826-5375 for more information

july/august 2013 |

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WEDDINGS W

Mr. and Mrs. Steven Andrew Beeler (Tracie Lynn Satel) May 18, 2013

Mr. and Mrs. Steven Weiss (Petty Helou) April 6, 2013

Daveck Studios

Paul Overstreet

Mr. and Mrs. Alejandro Longoria (Savannah Foster) March 9, 2013

David Sixt

Mr. and Mrs. Jeff Lee (Gina Travieso) May 11, 2013

Parish Photography

Straughan PhotographyÂ

Mr. and Mrs. Brett Warren Fey (Katherine Ann McLane) December 28, 2012

Mr. and Mrs. David Charles Michaelsen (Kristen Ashley Saari) June 15, 2013 july/august 2013 |

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THE SAN ANTONIO GARDENIA & MUSICAL CLUB CORONATION DINNER AND DANCE

Rose Marie Banack, Chris Schultz, McKenzie Schultz, Ramsey Marie Schultz, Courtney Schultz and Buddy Banack

Siobhain Buckley, Marjorie Murphy, Rose Marie Banack, DeeAnn Simpson, B.J. Duncan and Mertie Wood

Alamo Asian American Chamber of Commerce Annual Gala and Dinner Banquet July 11 Grand Hyatt (210) 701-1889

American Wounded Heroes Golf Classic August 12 Canyon Springs Golf Club (210) 381-7492

San Antonio Botanical Garden Concert Under the Stars July 11 San Antonio Botanical Garden (210) 207-3250

Assumption Seminary Leadership in Faith and Services Gala August 13 Omni Colonnade (210) 734-5137

The Woman’s Club of San Antonio Luncheon and Program July 17 The Woodward House (210) 732-4811

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Boots N Shoot August 16 National Shooting Complex (210) 225-5851

The San Antonio Association of Hispanic Journalists Scholarship Gala July 19 Grand Hyatt (210) 250-3402

The Woman’s Club of San Antonio Summer Luncheon August 21 The Woodward House (210) 732-4811

Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Pop The Top for the Cure July 25 Kendall Plantation (210) 829-7267

Boysville Platinum Jubilee and Auction August 23 JW Marriott Resort (210) 659-1901

Hispanic Sports Foundation for Education Inc. Scholarship and Induction Banquet July 27 Omni Colonnade (210) 433-4460

American Heart Association Heart Walk Kick-Off August 24 Nelson Wolff Stadium (210) 617-2615

UTSA Annual Gala July 27 Grand Hyatt (210) 458-4133

San Antonio Zoo Annual Zoo Run/Kids Run September 6 San Antonio Zoo (210) 734-7184 x1049

San Antonio Botanical Garden Concert Under the Stars August 8 San Antonio Botanical Garden (210) 207-3250

Children’s Association for Maximum Potential Annual Gala September 7 JW Marriott (210) 671-7955

The Woman’s Club of San Antonio Fashion Show August 10 Woodward House (210) 732-4811

UT Health Science Center President’s Gala September 7 Grand Hyatt (210) 567-2508

Renale, Andrea, Claudia, Tobin and Christian Olson

Sloan Hollingsworth and Sue Newell

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS W

THE TEXAS BIOMEDICAL FORUM GALA Alzheimer’s Association A Race to Remember September 14 Woodlawn Lake (210) 201-2055

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo S.A.L.E. Golf Tournament September 14 Tapatio Springs (210) 225-5851

Kelton and Melissa Morgan with Julie and Peter Zacher

Morgan’s Wonderland Free to Soar Gala September 20 Morgan’s Wonderland (210) 495-5888

Alzheimer’s Association Walk to End Alzheimer’s September 21 AT&T Center (210) 822-6449

Amelita Mauze, Emily Petty and Alice Welder

Wounded Warrior Project 8k Walk/Run September 21 McAllister Park (210) 569-0300

Center for Family Relations Celebrity Waiter Dinner September 25 UIW Rosenberg Sky Room (210) 733-3349

Women’s Global Connection Be a Part of Our Story Gala September 26 UIW Rosenberg Sky Room (210) 313-3562

Elizabeth Hale, Courtney Duphorne and Melissa Morgan

Ramiro and Xitlalt Herrera Salazar

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Fall Fest Casino Night September 27 Freeman Coliseum (210) 225-5851

The American Red Cross Red Carpet Gala September 28 Valero Headquarters (210) 582-1983

Lisa Spielhagen and Tom Wensinger

Richey and Joan Wyatt

july/august 2013 |

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WOMEN ON THE MOVE

Zanna Chbeir

Adrienne R. Garcia

Gretchen Garceau-Kragh

Zanna Chbeir has joined Keller Williams Realty as an agent at their Alamo Heights office. Working as a realtor liaison with a home-tending business, she became interested in the buying and selling side of the market and took online courses at night. She also has 10 years of experience in small business administration.

Urology San Antonio announces that nurse practitioner Adrienne R. Garcia has joined the staff and will evaluate and treat men’s and women’s general urologic health issues. A nurse practitioner since 2011, she earned her master’s of science in nursing from the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio.

Guide Dogs of Texas has promoted Gretchen GarceauKragh from director of development to chief operating officer. As COO, she will manage the development, finance, IT, marketing, human resources and facility operations of the nonprofit organization.

She has an MBA from the University of the Incarnate Word and nine years of nonprofit leadership.

Ann Mueller Urology San Antonio has named Ann Mueller as director of clinical programs.

Leading a team of some 70 medical assistants and clinical staff, she oversees all non-physician clinical activities and integrated services at eight clinic locations. She previously worked for Surgical Care Affiliates for 25 years.

Dr. Debra Root

Kathleen R. Stevens

St. Thomas Episcopal School announces the hire of its new school head, Dr. Debra Root. She recently obtained her Ph.D. in interdisciplinary learning and teaching curriculum studies from UTSA, where she has taught since 2009. Certified in ESL, gifted education, social studies and science, she has also taught at Northwest Vista College in the education department.

Kathleen R. Stevens, Ed.D., RN, FAAN, has been named the Chancellor’s Health Fellow in Interprofessional Health Delivery Science. A professor in the School of Nursing at the Health Science Center, she is founding director of the Academic Center for Evidence-Based Practice and has won numerous awards in nursing, including the profession’s most prestigious research honor, the Episteme Award.

Send your announcements to: SAN ANTONIO WOMAN 8603 Botts Lane San Antonio, TX 78217 • For information, please call (210) 826-5375.

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ASTROFORECAST W

CANCER June 22-July 22 You are entering a “talking head” period in your life as the month of July starts.

You are great with talking points and full of talking projects. It’s when mid-July arrives that the air has been let out of the balloon and everything begins to sag and you can begin to sulk. Curve balls are thrown at you, and everyone is asking you, “Where’s the walk to your talk?” Everything will be shaken out and shaken up by August; learn to trust inner intuition.

LEO July 23-August 22 Early July is a time period that favors games of chance, as you may experience sudden financial windfalls. You also experience unbiased insights involving personal relationships that take your breath away. Keep a dream interpretation book handy, as your inner psyche is stimulating intuitive undercurrents that may bear relevance later in August. You experience a tug-of-war of sorts between your conservative self versus your liberal side.

AstroForecast

By LANCE K. RODRÍGUEZ

CAPRICORN December 21-January 19 Unshackle the mind to be open to new alternative visions as well as to soar to new horizons and territories.

The best thing you have recently acquired is fearlessness, and because of this you have recalibrated yourself.

What point is there to fear death when in actuality you may have had fear of life?

Death is inevitable, and yet life is inexhaustible; look at Mother Nature and see how life affirms itself left and right. Reap and reward yourself with joy!

ARIES March 21-April 20 You are challenged during the summer with frustrating family issues as well as having to endure overly emotional situations taxing your patience.

Everybody is demanding support from you, and yet all you are looking for is a little sympathy. Get to the bottom of the truth, since usually demanding people have very little sympathy, and they tend to be very selfish by nature. Learn the following approach: “How do we solve this together?”

VIRGO August 23-September 22 You come to a realization of what your needs have been in contrast with what really are your future priorities, and the future beckons you. You may have taken too many trips to the wishing well with barely any results, so quit focusing outside of yourself for solutions and ascertain that you have all the inner tools to manifest your deepest desires.

It is in late August that you begin to pull order out of chaos and when you engage productive results.

SCORPIO October 23-November 22 So how does it feel to have the unnecessary in life totally stripped away from you and to stand before the crowd like the “emperor with no clothes”?

It’s amazing how a sculptor has to take out the chisel and the hammer to a block of rock to give life to an artistic vision and make it come alive. Rock is an inanimate object, yet the artist’s vision infuses the rock with “life.” Strip away the block in your life, and live life anew; you knew you had it in you.

AQUARIUS January 20-February 18 You are coming into a period of personal scrutiny, particularly on hot-button issues that have ignited frustration and anger from the past. Some things from the past are beyond control, but what you do have control over is the present as well as the future.

Source who is the “bully” in life and recognize that if you have disempowered yourself in the past, that is what is “bullying” you now. Take charge in your life, and work through issues instead of around them.

TAURUS April 21-May 20 There are career and management issues to start out with.

More importantly, what are the actual values to be supported, or do we have lack of values?

There are questions of fairness and justice surrounding you right now; the crux of the matter is most other people are indifferent and apathetic to these questions. Interest is more oriented to power plays and power games, which you must have no part of. Karma and consequences will be played out.

LIBRA September 23-October 22 July starts out with the focus on friends, groups and community outreach activities. In a very inconspicuous way you come to the aid of the “underdog,” as your compassion is strong as well as gentle. Teach this individual to provide for oneself as well as learn independence. Whether you are aware of it or not, you garner attention from an admirer, and you may have to accept a social invitation; attend the function with enthusiasm.

SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 20 Go back in time to your childhood to explore what were the attitudes and philosophies of life from your early family memories, particularly those of your parents and their immediate relatives. Keep the attitudes and philosophies that were positive and healthy for you, with all the other negative ones to be tossed away. Your personal progress will be impeded if you hold on to the old negative family views. Just take a healthy step forward.

PISCES February 19-March 20 The carnival is here! Head out to the arcade area of the carnival, as you will win the big teddy bear, you will hammer to the top of the bell, and you will toss the rings right on the mark. Incredible as it sounds, the universe is coming together to give you the push you need and the wherewithal to make dreams come true. The only requisites required are the following: Be patient with the process as it takes time; be organized, structured and systematic in endeavors.

GEMINI May 21-June 21 The Pied Piper is coming to town, knocking on your front door to collect on household expenditures and domestic financial reserves. Is that piggy bank full, or are you short with cash flow? If you cannot secure your domestic life, you will walk around the real world with insecurities that other people will psychically “pick up” on; they may head for the hills when you come around the mountain. One of your parents probably taught you this insecurity.

Lance K. Rodríguez is a professional Astrology/Tarot Consultant as well as a Usui/Karuna® Reiki Master. He can be reached at AstroLance.net. july/august 2013 |

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W LOOKING BACK

1925 San Antonio Women enjoy tea under the palms on the patio of the Menger Hotel.

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