San Antonio Woman Nov/Dec 2011

ESTATE SALES: THE LURE OF BARGAIN TREASURES

Paromita Datta, M.D. PRESCRIBES HOPE

WOMEN’S WELLNESS: HOW TO BEAT HOLIDAY STRESS

THE WOMEN’S BUSINESS DIRECTORY

W EDITOR

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CONTENTS NOVEMBER/DECEMBER//2011

112

41 30 26

Features 18 Hidden (and Not so Hidden) Treasures Estate sales hold the promise of wonderful bargains

26 Her Prescription is Hope Dr. Paromita Datta gives encouragement to cancer patients

30 Hill Country Aerie Villa is perfect home away from home

41 Holiday Glamour Sparkle and shine

82 Women in Business A visit with four local jewelry designers

92 Focus on Food

115

COLUMNS

SPECIAL SECTIONS

12 Editor’s Letter 14 Contributors 16 What’s New 63 Beauty & Fitness 66 Health Matters 80 Dollars & Sense 95 Wine 109 Mommy Matters 112 Dining 119 Arts & Culture 122 Restaurants 125 Weddings 128 Women on the Move 129 AstroForecast 130 Looking Back

49 Shop SA Shopping in San Antonio made easy

73 Women’s Business Directory 2011

CALENDARS 40 Fashion 121 Entertainment 126 Events

99 Women’s Wellness

Chefs share their holiday favorites

COVER

115 Role Model Tammy Baird finds fulfillment in ministering to those in need

Paromita Datta, M.D. Prescribes Hope

117 ArtBeat

photography Liz Garza Williams

Zelime Matthews is an artist of many talents

www.sawoman.com

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W EDITOR

Liz Garza Williams

Letter from the Editor

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2011 PUBLISHER J. Michael Gaffney EDITOR Beverly Purcell-Guerra

The approaching holidays signal that it’s time to be mindful of others, to think and act in caring ways.

Our Profile subject, Dr. Paromita Datta, knew at an early age that she liked being with people and helping them. Eventually this instinct led the native of West Bengal, India, to medical school in Calcutta and finally to the United States, where she became board certified in both internal medicine and oncology. Today, she is medical director of the Aurora Breast Center of San Antonio and an ardent advocate for her cancer patients.

GRAPHIC DESIGN Maria Jenicek, Jonathan Lee, Eric Weidner CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Paula Allen, Robyn Barnes, Ron Bechtol, Courtney Burkholder, Mary Anne Cole, Denise Easdon, Kelly A. Goff, Carole Miller, Anne Moore, Pat Mozersky, Lance K. Rodriguez, Valarie Spiser-Albert, Janis Turk, Jasmina Wellinghoff

Role Model Tammy Baird also exemplifies an unselfish life. She left behind a successful career as a hotel executive to work for Daily Bread Ministries, and today she feels she is exactly where she should be.

Our Feature introduces several of the women who conduct estate sales throughout our community. They’re all about recycling, in the best sense of the word: Individuals who are downsizing can sell what they no longer need, and others, especially those just starting out, have access to great bargains. Read about Joy Curnutt and Peggy Calhoun of Professional Estate Sales, LLC; Marcia Harris of Marcia Harris Antiques &

COPY EDITOR Kathryn Cocke FASHION Robert Mitchell PHOTOGRAPHY Bibb Gault, Robin Jerstad, Liz Garza Williams, Al Rendon, Janet Rogers, Vernon Wentz

Estate Sales, LLC; June Hayes of June Hayes and Associates; and certified appraiser Anne Alexander.

Environments takes you on a tour of a house in Di Lusso Villas at Cordillera Ranch that is a home away from home for a couple from Waxahachie. Their business keeps them on the road, and they value their “down” time here.

As the season of holiday parties grows near, Fashion focuses on glamorous attire.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jen Earhart Cedric D. Fisher Barbara Salemi ADMINISTRATION Nancy A. Gaffney

Look for sparkle and shine, brilliant sequins, gleaming satins and elegant accessories that add up to entrance-making drama.

Beauty & Fitness describes the latest trends in makeup and attire and offers tips on successful grazing during a season of heavy hors d’oeuvres. Check the Women’s Wellness section for ideas on avoiding holiday stress, and read Dollars & Sense for insight

CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER Kyra Bragg PRINTING Shweiki Media, San Antonio, Texas

on the pros and cons of buying American. ShopSA is full of ideas for unusual gifts that are sure to please.

For advertising information in

Focus on Food gives chefs’ recipes for revving up traditional holiday meals, while

San Antonio Woman

Wine helps you choose reds or whites to accompany the foods you’ll serve. Dining re-

call (210) 826-5375

views Fleming’s, where the steaks are outstanding and happy hour offers appealing

email: info@sawoman.com

drinks and appetizers.

In Women in Business you’ll meet four San Antonio women who design jewelry that

Published by

is sold nationally — Susan Shaw, Claudia Lobão, Carroll Dorsey Walker of Bejewel and Elizabeth Herff of Hazel Smyth. ArtBeat spotlights Zelime Matthews, whose whimsical pins are a San Antonio tradition, and who also creates bold and colorful paintings.

Mommy Matters takes a look at contentment — achieving it and helping our children

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

find it. Health Matters sheds light on back pain; Scene Around Town looks back on fall parties and fundraisers; and Arts and Culture reminds us of the many outstanding events occurring before the end of the year.

Be sure to see the updated Women’s Business Directory, with contact information on businesses owned by, or catering to, women. Also, look for us on the Web at www.sanantonio woman.com.

As SAN ANTONIO WOMAN celebrates its ninth anniversary, we wish you a happy and blessed holiday season.

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

“My love for cooking has led me on a delicious, if circuitous path,” says Pat Mozersky. “I’ve always believed that when an opportunity arises that intimidates, grab it! After years of cooking classes from mentor Sparky Boxall, I began teaching my own classes. Opportunities arose, and my teaching led to an additional career in food writing. I soon began writing the weekly Chefs’ Secrets column for the San Antonio Express-News, then hosting What’s Cooking, San Antonio? a daily cooking show.

The opportunity to write a guidebook to eating in Italy called The Hungry Traveler: Italy and to co-edit Cooking with Les Dames d’Escoffier followed.

Writing for SAN ANTONIO WOMAN is a joy. It gives me the chance to choose my subject and continue learning as I research each article.”

San Antonio photographer Robin Jerstad shot this issue's Women in Business story featuring four entrepreneurs and the jewelry businesses they've made successful. After many years of being a staff photographer at the Indianapolis Business Journal, he has a thorough background in how small business operates.

"I really like photographing the business owners and seeing the spirit and drive that it takes to make these businesses successful,” he says. “They’re the backbone of our economy, and it's what helps keep this part of Texas thriving. Additionally, I thought the designs of the various pieces were excellent and really showed some strong, artistic flair." In addition to SAN ANTONIO WOMAN and SAN ANTONIO MAN, Jerstad also shoots for various corporate and editorial clients. More of his work can be seen on his website, www.JerstadPhoto.com.

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W WHAT’S NEW

What’s New SAS SHOEMAKERS OPENS IN THE QUARRY MARKET

REAP THE REWARD OF HELPING SOMEONE IN NEED

Known for superb craftsmanship and extraordinary comfort, SAS Shoemakers is proud to announce the opening of its newest location in the Quarry Market, 255 E. Basse Road, Suite 544.

SAS has manufactured comfort footwear in San Antonio since 1976. Stop in, experience, and feel the comfort of SAS. Call (210) 494-1823 or visit www.sasshoes.com for more information.

The SAS General Store and Factory is located at 101 New Laredo Highway, and other stores are at Westlakes Village, The Rim, Log Cabin-Schertz and Tanger Factory Outlet, San Marcos.

Texas experienced its hottest summer on record this year, which meant more energy consumption through air conditioners and resulting higher utility bills. The Residential Energy Assistance Partnership, REAP, helped approximately 10,000 customers, providing more than $2 million in bill assistance.

As winter approaches, more low-income families and seniors will be in need. You can help by donating to REAP, a partnership between CPS Energy, the City of San Antonio and Bexar County. CPS Energy annually gives $1 million to REAP. You can donate by adding a little extra to your CPS Energy bill. For more info, e-mail REAPInc@cpsenergy.com or call (210) 353-4483.

THE NEW CAROL REYES BOUTIQUE CARRIES LOCAL, NATIONAL DESIGNERS Carol Reyes Boutique is a contemporary women’s specialty shop that carries clothing and accessories from upand-coming local designers as well as established designers from New York and Los Angeles.

Located just north of downtown at 1112 Blanco Road in a charmingly renovated 1920’s home, the boutique offers a unique and intimate environment for the San Antonio fashionista. It offers affordable and trendy apparel from casual attire to cocktail wear suitable for the college girl, the career woman or the stylish mom.

For out-of-town shoppers, Carol Reyes Boutique offers an online retail store at www.carolreyesboutique.com. To learn more, call (210) 875-9057.

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BODY WRAPS WILL HELP YOU GET READY FOR THE HOLIDAYS At Stadia Med Spa, body wraps are specifically designed to help you lose inches, reduce the appearance of cellulite and stretch marks, tighten and tone, contour the soft areas of the body and improve overall general health through detoxification.

Owned and operated by board-certified plastic surgeon Jaime R. Garza, M.D., Stadia offers services ranging from relaxing spa treatments to advanced medical procedures.

To learn more, including which monthly specials are available, go to www.stadiamedspa.com, or call (210) 881-6270.

Stadia Med Spa is located at 21 Spurs Lane, Suite 110.

W UP FRONT

Hidden (and Not So Hidden) TREASURES Estate sales hold the promise of wonderful bargains

By COURTNEY BURKHOLDER

A

Photography LIZ GARZA WILLIAMS

Lalique rose bowl, a set of embroidered hand towels, picture

key to their success mirrors their company name: professionalism. “We saw

frames, ladies’ shoes in a size 7 narrow, a vintage fur coat,

a need for outstanding customer service in the estate sales business, so we

sterling silver, an original oil painting, bric-a-brac, tools,

made the decision to open an office and have a very professional business,”

glassware, antique salt cellars, a 17th-century secretary, a comfy sofa, a

says Peggy proudly. “We put together a team of individuals, such as

lawn mower, bed linens, lamps, books, fine and costume jewelry, a bicy-

Maryanne Leeper, who were very knowledgeable in all aspects of this busi-

cle, kitchen appliances, children’s clothes, dishware, Oriental rugs and

ness from Scrivener’s, Bering’s, Frost Bros., and others who know the prices

more books. These are just a few of the items one can happen upon at

of items and have knowledge of collectibles, antiques, Texas primitives,

an estate sale.

books, jewelry. We brought on board a variety of people to support what

Every weekend, avid estate sale-goers scavenge the local papers, for-

we wanted to do because we felt that no one person in an estate sale com-

age the Internet and haunt the streets in search of hidden treasures to

pany knows everything.” With over 15 members available to assist them as

be unearthed at these popular events. I myself have been known to U-

needed, Joy and Peggy have quickly earned a reputation as one of the top

turn in the middle of a busy intersection upon spying a yard sign pointing

estate sales companies in the business, and they are not slowing down.

the way to an estate sale. There is just something about the endless pos-

“Our philosophy is that every sale is different and unique,” says Joy.

sibilities an estate sale holds. What could they have that I might need?

“A sale is really a museum of someone’s life. We are respectful of that.

What bargains would I miss out on if I were to drive by without stopping?

We consider ourselves the professional company with compassion.” Ex-

My car invariably finds its way to the curb, and I rush to the door, eager

tending that compassion to those in need is an aspect of their business

to see what treasures await.

that Joy and Peggy take great pride in. “Not everyone has antiques, fine

The women in this article have built strong reputations in San Antonio

art, sterling and china,” states Joy. “It’s about what a person needs and

and the surrounding areas when it comes to estate sales. Their vast

how we can assist them. We‘ve done sales when the bottom line wasn’t

knowledge of residential content, antiques and fine art, plus their empa-

profitable, but we felt good about it because we helped someone.” In

thetic natures, have taken them to the top in their field and provide San

the end, the sisters agree, it’s all about customer service. “Our goal is

Antonio with a much-needed service from which many can benefit.

that our customers are very satisfied. With happy customers, referrals come, and referrals build your business,” they say.

Joy Curnutt and Peggy Calhoun Professional Estate Sales, LLC

Apparently so, as Professional Estate Sales conducted 41 estate sales in 2010 alone. “We average about one sale per week. Besides referrals, we

Joy Curnutt and Peggy Calhoun are more than just sisters; they are

get much of our business from our website and the Internet,” says Peggy.

partners who share a passion for business, a love of fine things and a heart

As the sisters’ previous business was an online company, this was a natural

for people. “Even though we are very much alike, we are very different,

progression into the estate sales business. “The Internet is everything! All

too,” Joy says. “We have different strengths. We complement each other.”

of our employees have laptops so that we can quickly and easily research

The new kids on the block, as they refer to themselves, held their first

things as needed. This is just another aspect of the professionalism we

estate sale in 2006 and never looked back. According to the sisters, the

want to portray.” Peggy also writes a weekly newsletter that goes out to

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over 7,000 recipients with information and pictures of upcoming sales items.

Joy and Peggy stress the importance of professionalism in the actual sale. “We do sales of all sizes,” Joy says.

“When you have a great-looking sale and everything is organized, you are doing a better job for your client. We price to sell the first day. The more we sell on the first day, the better.” And according to Peggy, “We want the sale to be efficient. We wear uniforms during our sales so that we are easily identifiable and limit the number of people in the house at one time. Most sales last three days, typically Thursday through Saturday, although this can differ according to the needs of the client.

“Everyone’s needs are different, and we really try to go in and identify exactly what their needs are,” says Peggy. ”If they are moving or downsizing, we can help them with their new floor plan and deciding what to take.

We can pack up their things and get them moved if that is what they need.

We are a full-service business. We try to customize each sale for that individual liquidation.” Joy reiterates, “It’s really about guiding and directing.”

For many seeking the services of an estate sale company, the compassion that Joy and Peggy promise is key. “We do a lot of hand-holding and really try to

walk

the

family

through

the

process,” Peggy says. “When people have had a loss in their life, sometimes they are so emotional they can’t make decisions. They absolutely do not know what to do. And there have been times when we have said, ‘It’s too soon. You aren’t ready. Call us in six months. We will be here when you are ready.’”

When the sale is over, and the last trinket sold or donated, Joy and Peggy promise their clients three things: a clean and completely empty home, a check and a tax receipt for all donated items. Though they will

Peggy Calhoun (left) and her sister, Joy Curnutt, established Professional Estate Sales, LLC, and held their first sale in 2006. They promise their clients a clean and completely empty home, a check and a tax receipt for all donated items at the end of a sale. november/december 2011 |

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W UP FRONT

set up the final donation to the client’s charity of choice, Joy and Peggy are great supporters of the Assistance League of San Antonio.

“They have many worthy projects,” Joy says. One special project is Operation

Schoolbell,

which

provides

clothing to needy children in San Antonio. “The Assistance League told us that since we have been assisting them, they have been able to clothe over 1,000 more children in San Antonio. We are very proud of that.”

Joy and Peggy are members of the Better Business Bureau, the American Society of Estate Liquidators and the Alamo Heights Chamber of Commerce.

Marcia Harris, ISA AM Marcia Harris Antiques & Estate Sales, LLC For Marcia Harris, the estate sale business was a blessing that came later in life. “Many people, as they get older, just sort of retire and don’t do a lot. I didn’t want that to be me,” she recalls.

After her husband’s death in 1988, Marcia spent five years traveling the world and indulging her love of antiques and fine art. “Finally, I came home from a trip, and said to myself, ‘You can’t be on a trip the rest of your life, so what are you going to do with yourself?’”

With a 30-year background in art and interior decorating and a wealth of knowledge from her travels, she found the antique business a natural choice.

In 1993, Marcia opened Marcia Harris Antiques in Antique Connection, a flourishing antique business that eventually led her to expand her business into estate sales in 1999. “I saw a need and knew that I could meet that need,” she explains. “Doing estate sales really takes in every aspect of every job, volunteer or professional, that I’ve ever done.” In 2006, Marcia studied with the International Society of Appraisers and

Marcia Harris of Marcia Harris Antiques & Estate Sales, LLC, translated her background in art and interior decorating and knowledge gleaned from her travels into an antique business and in 1999 expanded her enterprise into estate sales.

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earned her credentials as an accredited member with a specialty in antiques and residential content.

Known for her compassionate nature and knowledge of antiques, Marcia has flourished in the estate sale business, on which she now focuses full time. “Because of the different work experiences and volunteer experiences I have had, I am well equipped to do what I do. An estate sale is most often an opportunity to help people through a very difficult time,” she says.

Though she appreciates the fluff money she makes doing estate sales, Marcia’s true reward comes from helping people: “I work because I love to work. I come from a volunteer life, and this is an opportunity to help people through a very difficult time. I care. I want to do something to make a difference in people’s lives and to make it easy for them. As estate sales are often the final chapter in the life of a loved one, they can be traumatic and difficult for family members who must part with a relative’s possessions while dealing with their own grief.

“My No. 1 priority is the client’s comfort. What are they telling me?

What are their needs? I tell people if they are in doubt about selling anything, don’t sell it. I’ll be happy to take it in on consignment at a later date, but I can’t get things back once they sell, so be certain.”

Marcia’s desire to help make the family’s transition as easy as possible is what she believes sets her apart in this business. “I’m a straight shooter. I only want to be hired if the family is very happy with me,” she says.

Of course, not all estate sales are due to a death in the family. People downsize or move out of a city. Divorce is a also a situation where assets may need to be divided or liquidated. No matter what the reason behind an estate sale, they are often quite stressful on those in-

Insider suggestions for estate sale shoppers:

volved. “I don’t want the family to be any more stressed out than they already are. I try to make the transition and the process as easy as possible. Hopefully, that is what comes across,” she says.

Preferring to stay small, Marcia relies on a handful of loyal associ-

1. Get there early! Diehards often come early and start a sign up sheet.

ates. ”I have a great crew that I work with,” she states proudly. “Most are older; the youngest is 54, and the oldest is 78, and they have all been with me for years.” She can’t accept all the work she is offered, limiting her sales to one or two per month, and doing 10 to 12 estate

2. Have knowledge about what you are looking for and buying.

appraisals per year. Marcia prides herself on being involved in every aspect of a sale, pricing all items, staging the house, working each sale, and personally going through every sales check, which can number from 400 to 800 per sale. All sales checks are accounted for, and clients are paid within two weeks of a sale.

Security is also a No. 1 priority for Marcia. A security table is set up

3. If you see something you like, buy it!

That is probably the best price you are ever going to get on the item.

for small and better items, including sterling, collectibles and jewelry.

Only after a paid receipt is shown are items released to the buyer. She says, “I limit the number of people in the house at one time, as well as having two or three security people spread throughout the house.”

4. Don’t wait for a markdown.

At 73, Marcia continues to be one of the most popular appraisers in the business. Although she no longer advertises her services and all referrals are word-of-mouth, her 20-year reputation in the community keeps her busy with more work than she can handle. She says, “I look at this as a gift and a blessing to be able to do this at my age and have the energy to do it. Estate sales meet a great need in the community, and I’m proud of what I do.”

november/december 2011 |

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W UP FRONT

June Hayes of June Hayes and Associates says some of the most popular items at an estate sale are jewelry, clothing, kitchen items, books, records and tools. She's had more than 15 years in the appraisal and estate sales business.

June Hayes, ISA AM

are going to find. You may find something very minor that you have been

June Hayes and Associates

searching for, or you may find a treasure,” June says.

With more than 15 years of experience in the appraisal and estate

“Estate sales are a wonderful way to recycle things. The beautiful

sales business, June Hayes is one of only four ISA-accredited appraisers

things in the home are finding additional worth because they are now

based in South Texas. Her previous career as an antiques art dealer, as

giving someone else pleasure. Whether giving a young couple a fresh

well as extensive travel abroad throughout her life as a military wife, have

start, a college student a nicer apartment than they thought they could

garnered her extensive knowledge in antiques and fine art and given her

afford, or an avid collector finding that perfect addition to their collec-

a unique advantage in a business that requires knowledge on so many

tion, estate sales offer something for everyone.

levels. “When you are appraising, people often ask if you conduct estate sales, so it dovetails very nicely,” June states.

“You will find things from one dollar to thousands of dollars,” June says. ”We try to price so that things appeal to a broad spectrum of the

Over the past decade, estate sales have become one of the most

community. Of course, everyone wants the lowest price they can get,

popular weekend pastimes, as well as a vital service in communities all

but our obligation is to get the best price we can for the family.” Ac-

over Texas. “Estate sales are popular because you never know what you

cording to June, estate sale fair market value falls somewhere between

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the wholesale and retail price. “It’s a lower price than you would find in a store, even a discount store, in most cases. That’s why people love estate sales. They know they are getting a good deal,” she explains.

One of the most important aspects of an estate sale company, stresses June, is an emphasis on principled practices. “We are a team of honest and experienced people who are working in a person’s home.

We are extremely honest and ethical,” she states emphatically. “This is imperative when you are given the responsibility for caring for other people’s possessions and for representing the closing of a chapter when someone in the family dies. We are especially experienced in presenting their loved ones’ possessions in a dignified manner. We have found money, traveler’s checks that have never been filled in, major jewelry and many other valuable items that the family didn‘t know about.

We turn in every single thing we find. This can be a very confusing and stressful time for a family, and having someone in the home that is trustworthy is essential. These are possessions that many times mothers and fathers have worked 50 or 60 years to accumulate. That must be respected.”

These principled practices extend throughout every aspect of June’s business. “We don’t have a company that is also an antique shop, so there is no conflict of interest,” she notes. “We are very professionally run. We write receipts for every single sale. We can verify our deposits with our receipts. We don’t mind the family being on site during the sale. There are companies out there who will not take a sale if someone is living in the home or if one of the family members wants to be on site during the sale. I don’t agree with that. It’s their home, after all. It’s their possessions. This is one thing that sets us apart.”

Though many sales follow a similar format, June insists that each sale is unique. “Each situation is different so you can’t have a cookie cutter plan ahead of time. Each situation is important to that family, whether it is a large sale or a small sale, or simply selling a few things

Anne Alexander, ISA CAPP

for them. We also advertise extensively so we get good results for our Like fine wine and cheese, appraisals go hand and hand with esfamilies. I have people who go in and only research books, art, jewelry. tate sales, and no one knows this better than Anne Alexander. With Estate sales may not be the answer for every item, and I have numerous resources all over America to sell things in whatever venue is appropriate,” she points out.

over 26 years in the business, Anne is one of the most sought-after and well-respected appraisers in South Texas. She is a member of the International Society of Appraisers and is certified in the appraisal

According to June, some of the most popular items at an estate sale

of antiques and residential content — the only certified appraiser in

are jewelry, clothing, kitchen items, books and records. For men, it’s the

South Texas. Anne’s vast knowledge of fine arts and antiques takes

tools in the garage!

her to all parts of South Texas, including Kerrville, Austin, Uvalde and Del Rio, as well as San Antonio, for appraisal jobs.

JUNE‘S TIPS FOR CHOOSING THE RIGHT ESTATE SALES COMPANY FOR YOU: 1.

Hire a reputable company with a proven track record and references.

2. Don’t wait until the last minute to contact a company.

3. Don’t let the lowest commission structure be a deciding factor in the selection of the company.

“My true love is fine art,” she says. “I appraise lots of fine art and donations to museums all over the state. And often I do appraisals just because people are curious to know what their collection or painting is worth.” Her latest job: a 1,000-piece collection of folk art being donated to the McAllen Museum in McAllen, Texas.

Recognized by the Chubb Insurance Company as a preferred provider, Anne appraises many taxable estates for tax purposes, eq-

4. Find a company that will quote you a commission, and that’s it. Other uitable division and insurance, and also does donation appraisals for expenses should be absorbed on the company’s side. people who are giving art to museums for tax deductions. “Many of 5. Make sure the company you choose has a written, well-thought-out contract that will protect both parties.

Most important tip: Don’t throw away anything other than the ob-

these appraisals go directly to the IRS arts review panel,” she notes.

“Donors as well as attorneys and bank trust departments want someone with the most credentials they can find and lots of experience.”

vious trash. Let the company decide what should be thrown away. Fam-

Not only is Anne exceptional at her job, she enjoys it: “It’s all

ilies often clean out drawers and cabinets before calling a company.

very interesting; part detective, part connoisseur. My curiosity keeps

They think estate sales are just for furniture. It‘s all the little things that

me going. I never know what the next phone call will bring!”

add up for the bread and butter!

november/december 2011 |

23

Oncologist Paromita Datta, M.D., grew up in West Bengal, India, and came to the United States to continue her professional training.

Today she is medical director of the Aurora Breast Care Clinic.

PROFILE W

Her Prescription Is

Hope

Dr. Paromita Datta gives encouragement to cancer patients

I

By PAULA ALLEN

Photography LIZ GARZA WILLIAMS

f there is one message that Paromita Datta, M.D., hopes to convey to her patients, it’s that “Cancer is not a

death sentence.”

As medical director of the Aurora

Breast Care Clinic, she has to deliver her share of unwelcome news, but nearly always, she says, “There are things we can do. There is life after cancer.”

Dr. Datta, who was brought up in West Bengal, India, grew up “knowing I liked to be with people, helping out.” That soon translated into an ambition to become a doctor or a nurse, like some of her extended family. Because Bengal is one of the most educationally advanced parts of India, she had her parents’ support in pursuing the schooling she would need to enter one of the health professions.

She spent 10 years at a Catholic school, where she learned to speak fluent English and became accustomed to “Christian and Western culture.” For medical school, she attended Calcutta Med-

Dr. Datta and Dr. Jui -Lien Chou, medical director of the Aurora Breast Center of San Antonio, chat with patient Donna Flores, who works at H-E-B bakery.

ical College of Calcutta University in the city now known as Kolkata, doing her internship rotations there and working in

sors, and the staff was very nice to me,”

and in treatment.” In her present job, she is

the teaching hospital’s many clinics.

she says. “It didn’t take me a long time to

involved with patients at every stage, from

To continue her medical training, Dr. Datta says, “I always knew I wanted to go

get used to being here. In fact, it felt al-

cancer prevention through many kinds of

most natural.”

treatment. She draws on all her past train-

to the United States, because this is where

Dr. Datta didn’t find much different

ing to work with patients with different kinds of malignancies, including not only

the cutting-edge research is being done.”

about her American patients, either: “When

Her first stop was at Baylor College of Med-

people are sick, they’re scared. The way we

breast cancer but lung, colon and stomach

icine in Houston, where she conducted a

practice medicine may be different, but

cancers, as well as lymphoma, leukemia and

clinical research study on type 2 diabetes.

everyone wants to get better.”

multiple myeloma.

She continued her education at the Uni-

Board-certified in both internal medicine

“Research is showing us that this is not

versity of Texas Health Science Center,

and oncology, Dr. Datta has chosen to pur-

one disease but many different diseases,”

where she followed a residency in internal

sue the latter, although she acknowledges

says Dr. Datta. On the most positive side,

medicine with a fellowship in hematology

that “cancer is a hard diagnosis.” She chose

she says, “Internists often work with pa-

and oncology (the treatment of cancer). “I

her specialty, she says, because “There is so

tients who have conditions like diabetes

had very supportive teachers and profes-

much going on in this field, both in research

and high blood pressure. Those are dis-

november/december 2011 |

27

W PROFILE Dr. Datta confers with colleague Art Escobedo in the MRI room at the Aurora Center, where patients have access to a dedicated breast MRI. For those who have even one or two first-degree relatives — a mother or a sister — who have had breast cancer, Dr. Datta advises genetic counseling, since the lifetime risk of developing the disease for those who are found to carry the BRAC gene is as high as 80 to 90 percent. At Aurora, she helps such patients calculate their risk assessment and consider their options, from MRI screening to preventive medication, such as tamoxifen, or even preventive surgery, up to mastectomy for both breasts.

Cancer care “does not end with diagnosis,” says Dr. Datta. Even in the decade she has been practicing medicine, she says, “There have been so many advances in breast cancer and other kinds of cancer.

Researchers have developed targeted therapies that identify cancer cells and kill those cells, not others, so there are fewer side effects.” New, nontoxic “smart therapies” developed from lab-invented molecules are different from chemotherapy and may be better tolerated by patients.

Dr. Datta is finding her choice of specialty “very satisfying. I wanted to take care of patients, be there for them,” she says. “ I like to guide patients through their treatment to help them fight and cope with cancer. Sometimes they win their battle; sometimes not. There are some situations where you may not be able to win eases you can control but not cure. In

Another aspect of prevention is leading

many cases, it is possible to cure cancer.”

a healthy lifestyle — maintaining a healthy

your battle, but you may be able to manage the disease for many years.”

Early detection often is crucial to a

weight, eating lots of fresh fruits and veg-

She makes sure her patients under-

good outcome. Of the one in eight women

etables, getting enough Vitamin D and cal-

stand that she is available to them at any

who develop breast cancer, only 15 percent

cium through diet or supplements, taking

time. “They can reach me at any time of

have a family history of the disease, so she

a daily low-dose aspirin and learning to do

the day,” she says. “If they are running a

recommends that all women get a yearly

monthly breast self-examinations. Women

fever on chemo or if some symptom like

mammogram after age 40. “It should be a

who have been told by their doctors that

diarrhea has gotten worse, I can call in an-

regular part of your life, like changing your

they have dense breasts or who have ex-

tibiotics. We can take care of it immedi-

smoke-detector batteries or taking your car

perienced fibrocystic changes might ben-

ately. Sometimes those calls save lives.”

for a 10,000-mile checkup,” says Dr. Datta.

efit from a yearly MRI, instead of or in

“Yes, we are often scared to get (the mam-

addition to a mammogram.

A typical work day for Dr. Datta is a long one, starting when she drops her two

mogram) done, but if there is something

At the Aurora Center, patients have ac-

daughters, Shreya and Ariana, at school.

there, we can take care of it.” She suggests

cess to a dedicated breast MRI, which can

She usually arrives at the clinic at 9 a.m.

making mammograms “as much a part of

be more accurate than a mammogram.

for a full day of appointments with new

your routine health care as getting your

“This center was set up by Dr. Lillian Chou,

and returning patients, until 5 p.m., when

teeth cleaned.” One of the most frustrating

an oncologist who’s also a breast cancer

she leaves for at least two hours of visits

parts of her job is to have to tell a patient

survivor,” says Dr. Datta. “Her cancer was

with patients in downtown and Medical

she has stage 4 cancer, “when surgery is

missed on a mammogram, so she came up

Center hospitals.

now impossible, but we might have been

with the idea of an entire machine dedi-

able to operate if we had caught it earlier.”

cated to breast cancer screening.”

28 | sawoman.com

Her husband, Sohom Chaudhary, an engineer, usually takes care of the children

PROFILE W

after school. “He supports my career 100 percent,” she says. “We adjust. We have to plan ahead of time to make everyone’s schedules work.” The couple met in India; while their parents knew each other, it was not an arranged marriage, as is sometimes the custom in their native country. “We met and started dating and fell in love just like anyone else,” she says, smiling.

Dr. Datta’s husband first moved to the United States two years before she finished medical school, and she joined him shortly after graduation. Both decided to stay and build their careers and family life here and have become U.S. citizens. They visit family in India, where Dr. Datta has previously worked in rural health camps and in a flood relief program. When her children are older, she’d like to spend a few weeks to a month each year providing her expertise in oncology in an Indian hospital. But she doesn’t expect to return to India permanently. “I miss my parents and my friends,” she says, “but we like the States. Our life is here.”

In the future, she says, “It’s my dream that someday we will be able to prevent cancer.” Until then, she hopes that doctors and patients alike will gain a greater understanding of the disease, “so we can prevent it before it even develops.”

Dr. Datta enjoys time with her daughters Ariana Chaudhary, center, and Shreya Chaudhary.

november/december 2011 |

29

W ENVIRONMENTS

Hill Country Aerie Villa is perfect home away from home

By ROBYN BARNES

Photography by AL RENDON

The drive from the entry of Cordillera Ranch to the Villas

“We took possession of this house on Dec. 26, 2010,” Terrie

of Di Lusso is quite enjoyable in the late afternoon, when the

says. “By New Year’s Eve, we were ready to celebrate our new

long golden rays of the sun stretch across the undulating hills.

home with our whole family. It was a great event!”

Long shadows from the oak trees spill across the winding

The semi-custom 4,100-square-foot home sits on a quarter

road that climbs up the rise and ends at the wrought iron

of an acre, surrounded by a wrought iron fence that keeps

gates. Light breezes blow across this hilltop, and the

pets in and wildlife out — but within view. The home’s exterior

panorama is magnificent.

is a cave stone and stucco mix with an imported clay tile roof.

Les and Terrie Whitman live in a Tuscan-style home in this

Pasadera Builders handled the design and construction.

new enclave. It’s a home away from home for them; they own

Les and Terrie were drawn to Di Lusso at Cordillera Ranch

a ranch in Waxahachie, Texas. A separate business requires

by the countryside and the enclave’s “lock and leave” conven-

traveling all over the country, including South Texas, and they

ience — very attractive for travelers like the Whitmans. Exte-

value the “down” time they spend here.

rior landscaping is maintained for all Di Lusso residents. Home

30 | sawoman.com

ENVIRONMENTS W

Les and Terrie Whitman's home in Cordillera Ranch features Tuscan-style architecture in stone and stucco. Within the walled courtyard is a bronze statue of two children. Opposite: the living room. november/december 2011 |

W ENVIRONMENTS

interior functions, including utilities, are designed to be remotely controlled.

The couple enjoy the lifestyle, too. They can dine at the clubhouse, the spa and the golf course, all within walking distance.

An equestrian center is also available to stable Terrie’s horses, should she bring them with her from the ranch.

BUILDING A RELATIONSHIP “Pasadera Builders were great to work with,” Terrie says. “Les and I have constructed a lot of buildings over the years, between homes and work projects. I designed our ranch house.

So I know what I like — open airiness and a simple floor plan.

The people at Pasadera worked with us for many hours to get the floor plan and the fixtures just the way we wanted them.”

Pasadera Builders’ Gabriel Garcia emphasized the importance of the working relationship the company had with the couple. “We were together a great deal during the design process,” he comments. “Terrie had lots of ideas about what she wanted in the house. We’d get close to finishing the design, and she’d have new ideas — and they’d improve the home, so we’d make changes. Then we’d have suggestions, so we’d work on those items. The whole building process is one of ideas, estimates and creativity.”

Les Whitman selected the range and refrigerator from Heartland Appliances for the kitchen, above. At right, a niche contains a carved wooden chest and art pieces.

32 | sawoman.com

W ENVIRONMENTS

FINE FINISHING The Whitman home is high quality and energy efficient. The tile floors are imported travertine with a leathered finish. The travertine is mud set, allowing a laying pattern only available using Old World methods. Where tile isn’t used, flooring is of solid hickory pecan, installed in the traditional fashion — not glued down. The windows, by Kolbe, are solid wood on the interior with aluminum exteriors. All the interior doors are solid mahogany.

A spacious walled courtyard surrounds the home’s entry. It provides an outdoor living area and a private refuge and is accented by a fountain, gas lanterns and a beautiful bronze statue of two children waiting by their mailbox for a letter. “We landscaped so that our grandchildren will eventually be able to ride tricycles around the tree in the center,” Terrie says. “They’ll have a safe place to ride, and I won’t have to run far chasing them.”

The living/dining area features high ceilings and windows offering a wonderful view from any vantage point.

A

pass-through

kitchen

counter keeps everyone included in the action. The kitchen is Les’s domain; he likes to cook. He chose the red vintage-style Heartland appliances. “We originally wanted them

The master bedroom, above, accesses a flagstone patio. The master bath has raised vanities with marble counters. Above, a bathroom mosaic.

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W

november/december 2011 |

35

W ENVIRONMENTS for our ranch house, but they were too big for the kitchen,” Terrie says. “We were really pleased when they fit here.”

A wide back porch with an outdoor kitchen and big-screen television runs nearly the length of the house. The family gathers here and around the fire pit for barbecues and special occasions.

“The best place here in the fall is the fire pit, when the flames are leaping and it is pitch dark,” Terrie says. “I love sitting here with the crackle of the fire and the stars overhead.”

The couple share the study, which they use as an office. The walls are accented with faux-painted weathered brick and ivy.

“This is something Les has always liked, so we incorporated the idea when we designed this space,” she says. Across the hall is Terrie’s exercise studio, complete with special flooring and surge protectors.

The master suite accesses a flagstone patio through French doors. High ceilings and windows provide the perfect foil for the large carved bed and matching night chests.

The travertine-tiled master bath has raised his-and-hers vanities with marble counters. The walk-in shower has thermostatically controlled shower valves and multiple fixtures. Water is heated using a hybrid water heater that is 98-percent efficient, constantly circulating hot water so no one ever waits for hot water anywhere in the house.

A view down the front entry hall. Floors are travertine with a leathered finish. The tiles are mud set, allowing a pattern only available using Old World methods.

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W

november/december 2011 |

37

W ENVIRONMENTS

A wide back porch with an outdoor kitchen and big-screen television runs nearly the length of the house. The family likes to gather at the fire pit for barbecues and special occasions.

The walk-in closet is a custom design, and the millwork matches that found in the rest of the home. Track lighting and a large window illuminate the space.

Three guest suites easily accommodate visiting family and friends.

A beautiful wooden staircase leads to the reading room, furnished with overstuffed sofas. Built-in bookcases line one wall; natural light filters from large windows overlooking the courtyard.

The utility room is spacious by anyone’s standards. Granite countertops provide plenty of workspace, and cabinets are in abundance.

Across the hall is a special room built to care for Terrie’s dogs. The waist-high sink is big enough to hold a medium-sized canine with ease. The dogs’ crates are housed in this room. There’s also a Sub-Zero refrigerator and wine cooler that’s not for the dogs.

“I just love my house,” Terrie says. “I get excited every time I come here. I enjoy the grounds, my neighbors — everything about this place. It’s a treat to live here.”

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EDITOR W

november/december 2011 |

39

W FASHION CALENDAR

November 9 Saks Fifth Avenue Nini Personal Appearance Trunk Show Fine Jewelry

November 21-22 Saks Fifth Avenue AKRIS Trunk Show Colorful Architectural Designs

Nov 9-13 & 16-20 Neiman Marcus Bejeweled By San Antonio Designer Carroll Dorsey Walker Colorful and Bold Jewelry

November 21-22 David Hurtado Trunk Show Fine Jewelry

November 10 Neiman Marcus Lancome Skin Care Event Laura Mercier Spa Chantecaille Spa

November 28-30 Kathleen Sommers David Hurtado Fine Jewelry Trunk Show Traditional and Eclectic Designs

November 10-12 Kathleen Sommers Patricia Nash Italian Leather Handbag Designer Lorena Angulo Fine Jewelry Trunk Show

November 30 Julian Gold Holiday Gourmet Soiree Tasting Event

November 11-12 Julian Gold Algo Swiss Designer Spring/Summer 2012 Trunk Show Understated and Classic

40 | sawoman.com

Saks Fifth Avenue

November 30 Saks Fifth Avenue David Yurman Fine Jewelry Timeless Elegant Designs

November 15-19 Andie and Barbara 600 West and Madison Hill Separates Showing

December 8 Kathleen Sommers Third Annual Bracelet Show Unique and handcrafted bracelets 6-9 pm

November 16 Julian Gold Boots, Bags, and Bangles Fundraising Event Benefitting the Texas Biomedical Forum

December 10 Neiman Marcus Ippolita Trunk Show Fine Jewelry

November 17-18 Julian Gold Naeem Khan Spring/Summer 2012 Trunk Show Luxurious and Chic Designs

December 12-13 Saks Fifth Avenue Oscar de la Renta Trunk Show Vivid colors and extravagant designs

November 17-19 Julian Gold Amsale Bridal Trunk Show Timeless and Sophisticated Designs

December 12-13 Saks Fifth Avenue Coomi Personal Appearance Trunk Show Jewelry

November 17- 22 Saks Fifth Avenue J. Mendel Trunk Show Fur Salon

December 13 John Hardy Trunk Show Jewelry

Saks Fifth Avenue

November 18 Nordstrom UGG Australia Event Woman’s Shoes The Shops at La Cantera 12-4 pm

December 15 Konstantino Trunk Show Jewelry

Saks Fifth Avenue

Holiday Glamour Sparkle and Shine

By Robert Mitchell Photography Liz Garza Williams

Tarnished gold metallic organza gown by Oscar de la Renta, at Saks Fifth Avenue. Blush chiffon tunic with embellished cuff by HOSS; vintage ruby and antique gold flower drop earrings by Miriam Haskell; gunmetal wingtip oxfords by Anyi Lu, all at Julian Gold.

Black chiffon dress with sequined rose appliquĂŠs by Badgley Mischka; black suede shoes with gunmetal python heels by Christian Louboutin, both at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Black velvet tuxedo jacket from Twelfth Street by Cynthia Vincent, at Meadow. Multistrand bracelet in black, silver and copper by Felix & Adriks, at Aquarius. Emerald drop pendant necklace by Jill Reno, at Julian Gold.

FASHION W

Sequined blush chiffon top by Gold Hawk and silver sequined tweed pencil skirt by Oscar de la Renta, at Julian Gold. Silver and gold long chain necklaces with rhinestones, both by Gerald Yosca, at Kathleen Sommers. Chrome-toe black pump by Chanel, at Saks Fifth Avenue.

november/december 2011 |

43

W FASHION

Beaded and sequined top by KAS New York; vintage ruby and antique gold necklace (shown as bracelet) by Miriam Haskell, both at Julian Gold. Navy satin gown with plaid top by Carol Reyes, at Carol Reyes Designs. Black suede shoes with gunmetal python heel by Christian Louboutin, at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Photography Assistant: Robert Amador Stylist: Krista Ynostrosa Fashion Assistant: Rodrigo Velez Makeup: Donna Horner Hair: Marguerite Najera Nail Lacquer: “Loredana Mat� by Zoya, courtesy of A.R.T. Massage and Body Spa

44 | sawoman.com

Black trim chiffon blouse with gold button detail by Jemma; gold and silver stacked rings

by Felix & Adriks, both at Aquarius. Black wool tuxedo pant with satin trim by St. John; multistrand onyx and gold beaded necklaces by Virgins, Saints, and Angels; black bead strand and gold stone-encrusted nugget pendant by Alexis Bittar, all at Julian Gold. Black suede shoes with gunmetal python heel by Christian Louboutin, at Saks Fifth Avenue.

W EDITOR

46 | sawoman.com

W AROUND TOWN

BOYSVILLE PRESENTS

BOYSVILLE WILDEST AUCTION 1. David and Sharon Adelman, Raymond and Debi Flume, Marnie and Bill Atlas 2. Doreen and Mike Magoon 1

3. Kym Rapier and Sam O'Krent

4

ROTARY CLUB PRESENTS

ANNUAL DON STRANGE ROTARY RANCH PARTY 4. Brad and Lisa Johnson with 2

Brodie and Ginna Lowrey

5

5. Brandon and Erin Clementson with Courtney and Chris Williams 6. Kyler, Kirstyn, Keith and Dawn Parker

3

48 | sawoman.com

6

W SHOPSA

‘ Tis the Season for …

Shopping and More!

Gift ideas for everyone on your list

By Janis Turk

F

or many women, shopping is their passion and almost always a joy.

However, during the holidays it can start to feel like a job. As with anything you have a deadline to do, buying holiday gifts can feel like

just another chore to check off your “To-Do” list. And during November and

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR …

GIFTS THAT ARE EXPERIENCES RATHER THAN THINGS. Think of what you could

December there never seems to be enough time to do it all. Stress can take

do for someone or give to

the fun out of even the most enjoyable things.

them that would be an

So what’s the key to putting the Ho! Ho! Ho! back in holiday shopping, adding tinsel to the time and enjoying that old Joy to the World feeling once more?

event or experience they might enjoy — a splurge they wouldn’t buy for themselves. How about tickets to the Majestic to see a concert or a play? Or how about movie passes? For older people who have a house full of things collected over the years, being

Start with a new attitude. Don’t say, “I can’t get into the holiday spirit

given an experience is so much more valuable than an object.

this year.” Instead, think about the many people who have made this

Take a friend to lunch — it will really make her day. Ask a neigh-

past year special — all those you love and want to thank or do something

bor or elderly relative to come see the lighting of the River Walk with your family — they’ll love being included. Take your niece

special for. Then think of ways you can please and spoil them. But most

or nephew on a carriage ride down by the Alamo — they’ll never

of all, forget about checking lists twice and Santa Baby or what Martha

forget it. Have the kids rake leaves for a neighbor. Help Grandma

Stewart would do. Do what makes you and your family happy — and that

hang holiday lights or put up her Christmas tree — she’ll appre-

may mean doing a lot less this year.

Instead, put emphasis on giving of yourself (not buying stuff!) and you’ll feel the pressure lift. Doing for others is a surefire way to make you feel as warm and cozy inside as a cup of hot cocoa. For holiday shopping shouldn’t be about obligations and expectations — it should be a time for grateful appreciation, celebration and, above all, joy.

So here’s a list of November/December reminders of what it’s all about — ways to make the holiday shopping doldrums disappear like a dreary winter day turned sunny. Remember, this isn’t just a time for turkey and trim-

ciate it more than any pretty knickknack you could buy.

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR …

SPOILING SOMEONE ROTTEN. How about a gift certificate for a day at a local spa and/or salon? Lots of moms never spend money or take time for themselves. A mani/pedi doesn’t cost a lot, but it can make her feel pampered. How about a hot stone massage to warm someone, body and soul? Maybe there’s someone you know on a fixed income who would really like her hair done at a nice salon. With

mings, tinsel and trees, objects and ornaments. It’s the season for giving of

a gift certificate, she’ll feel like a queen for a day and look like

yourself to others. When you do, love and joy will surely come to you.

one too.

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SHOPSA W

july/august 2011 |

53

W SHOPSA

Shop SA ‘TIS THE SEASON FOR … MUSIC! Big close-out sales at local bookstores mean CDs are marked down in price this winter. Many people buy their music as downloadable computer files now, so a lot of stores are discounting music CDs and movie DVDs. Most of us still have CD players in our cars and homes, and DVD players are still attached to our televisions, so a gift like this will be welcome. Don’t forget to get some new holiday music if you’ve worn out your Charlie Brown Christmas CD and you’re bored with Bing. If you’ve got teens to buy for, an iTunes gift card makes a great stocking stuffer.

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR …

SETTLING IN WITH A GOOD BOOK. Just as with music, a lot of folks today download books to their Kindle or iPad. Still, there’s nothing like the feel of a hardback in hand as you cuddle up on a long winter’s night by the fire. How about a book of poetry? Or an anthology of short essays? Religious devotionals, journals and coffee table books always make great gifts.

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR … BLING! Local shops and local artists, like the ones featured

in

this

issue’s

Women in Business story, are all about the best of holiday

bling.

Forget

decking the halls — deck yourselves out from head to toe in the pretty accessories that make your outfits sparkle. Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, brooches, baubles and beads — it’s like a winter frosting to make your look shimmer. You’ll feel pretty with a shiny new belt, a pretty scarf, a bright oversized handbag and all the glitter of costume jewelry. Such extras are on sale everywhere now, so shop locally, support local artisans, and find unique objects that are like little pieces of art for your wardrobe.

‘TIS THE SEASON …

TO GET CREATIVE. Photo gifts are fabulous ways to keep good memories fresh. With the advent of computers, it’s easy to do much more with photos and children’s art than just make coffee mugs and plates. With the click of a mouse, today’s Web sources like Vistaprints.com can help you make calendars, stationery, postcards, canvas prints, posters and more from your everyday photos. Cooler still are sites like Spoonflower.com that turn your own photos and art into affordable original custom-printed fabric you can use to make purses, clothing, pillows and more. And don’t forContinued on page 58

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november/december 2011 |

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EDITOR W

november/december 2011 |

57

W SHOPPING Continued from page 54

Shop SA get that just giving a little pocketbook album to the grandparents is a great idea. In this digital age, many of us simply load our camera’s memory cards into our computer and never get around to printing photos. You don’t want your kids growing up thinking the only way to see their baby pictures is by searching old hard drives.

Print your photos and make albums.

‘TIS THE SEASON … FOR HOME MOVIES. Have your old home movies converted from 8mm film or VHS tape to DVDs. Then play them in a loop all day when family comes over for a Thanksgiving or holiday meal.

‘TIS THE SEASON …

TO USE THE GOOD CHINA. Many of us bring out the good china for holiday meals and then break a dish or get a chip in our crystal when washing the dishes. We never get around to replacing those pieces. Websites like Replacements Inc. and local gift shops make replacing broken china easy. A matching serving dish for newlyweds, or a replacement piece for the family china, is a thoughtful gift. Keep complete sets together so you can pass down your china, silver and stemware to your children and grandchildren someday.

‘TIS THE SEASON … TO DOTE ON THE MEN IN YOUR LIFE. Many men don’t shop for the small everyday things they need.

They may buy a barbecue grill or lawn mower — the big things they desire — but forget their sock drawer is full of mismatched pairs, their golf shirts are faded and their khakis are fraying at the

58 | sawoman.com

SHOPPING W

Shop SA cuffs. Keep their measurements on a card in your purse, and keep your eye out for a sale. Prices on menswear are often slashed during the holidays, so it’s a good time to pick up more than just another winter sweater. Stock up on underwear, socks, polo shirts and more. And get your guy some toiletries, too — a new toothbrush, new razors and maybe some nice cologne. It’s the little things that will make him feel loved.

‘TIS THE SEASON …

TO CELEBRATE CHILDREN. If you’re losing your holiday happiness, head to a toy store. Playing with puzzles or Legos and holding a dolly that cries real tears can bring out the kid in you. Children re-energize our spirits and light up our lives, so make sure you put them at the top of your list.

‘TIS THE SEASON …

FOR GIVING. You needn’t attend a church, mosque or synagogue to tithe regularly.

Giving can happen anywhere and anytime. Contributing to organizations like the Red Cross, Habitat for Humanity, the United Way, Heifer International, the March of Dimes, the American Cancer Society, local libraries and other charities is always a good idea — and contributions in another’s name are always welcome gifts. If your budget is stressed, why not give a day of your time to help with a local food bank or bring aid to those who lost homes in the Bastrop-area fires? Bring the kids along so they will learn that giving of oneself can be the greatest gift of all.

‘TIS THE SEASON FOR … COUNTING YOUR BLESSINGS. Our gifts are many, and we’re so grateful … especially for readers like you. Happy holidays, and may God bless us, every one. november/december 2011 |

59

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november/december 2011 |

61

FabulousFinds

pEñALOzA & SONS

STAdIA MEd SpA From now until December 23rd, receive a $20 bonus for every $100 spent on gift cards or holiday packages! Stadia Med Spa believes you should not only look your best, but feel your best on every visit! Stadia offers complimentary consultations by licensed professionals, reward programs, monthly specials, events, and so much more! Owned and operated by Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, Jaime R. Garza M.D., Stadia offers a range of services from relaxing spa treatments to advance medical procedures. For more information, including fantastic monthly specials, can be found online at www.StadiaMedSpa.com and for last-minute promotions and giveaways, find Stadia on Facebook!

21 Spurs Lane, Suite 110 San Antonio, TX 78240 (210) 881-6270 www.stadiamedspa.com

Whether it's Ruby, Rubellite or Rhodolite Celebrate RED, the accent color of the decade. (Also see back cover) Experience fine jewelry in diamonds and all the colors of the rainbow. For the holidays and everyday it's Peñaloza & Sons.

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

VEGA'S INTERIORES MEJICANOS A family tradition since 1939; three generations of Vegas has explored Mexico for inspiring creations to delight their clients, like this Tin Repousse Mirror made by master tinsmiths Hojalaterias of Guanajuato. Vega's is open Monday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm.

4002 San Bernardo Ave. Laredo, TX 78041 (956) 724-8251 www.VegasInteriores.com

ALLEN & ALLEN CO. Influenced by the connection of industry and art, Henry easily transitions between modern, traditional, utilitarian and classic settings. The fittings’ impeccable craftsmanship and refined design work hand in hand. Elegant curves and classical shapes add gracious manners to Henry’s plainspoken personality.

Henry is part of Allen & Allen Company’s newest line of product offerings by Waterworks. Visit our Decorative Showroom today to learn more about this Waterworks product and others.

920 N. Loop 1604 W. (210) 344-6099 www.LumberHardware.com

SAN ANTONIO MAN The perfect stocking stuffer for your special guy. Give him a one year subscription to San Antonio Man, San Antonio’s newest magazine for men from the publishers of San Antonio Woman.

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

ORIENTAL RuG GALLERy This Tibetan Weave Rug is hand knotted in an ancient tradition with modern style and subtle coloration. The rug is made of luxuriously soft wool and imported exclusively for Oriental Rug Gallery of Texas. It is available in sizes from 4x6’ to 10x14’ and starts at $749.

(800) 568-8098 www.orgtx.com

visit us online at www.ShopSA.com

FabulousFinds

november/december 2011 |

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W

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BEAUTY W

The Holidays: Get Ready for the Glitz, the Glamour and the Grazing

By ANNE MOORE

L

ast issue, I previewed

the fashion

shoes and boots, with low-cut, high-cut or

Some are very exotic and potent. Some con-

trends for the fall and winter seasons

over-the-knee heights. There is some good

sumers buy fragrances because of the de-

noting that “most anything goes.”

news, though. There are many “riding” style

signer’s name. Others like a fruity or floral or

However, it’s more like most anything goes

boots and some flats with regular flat heels of

herbal scent. There are so many wonderful

while maintaining a classy look.

only an inch or so. You can also find some of

scents, you may have a hard time deciding.

THE GLITZ

the dressy styles with slim heels of only 2 to 3

Grab a few of those cards sprayed with per-

inches. You will find fancy, fancy, fancy shoes

fume handed out in cosmetic areas of stores,

Yes, glitz is in! On everything! Jeweled, glit-

loaded with feathers, fuzzy things, rhinestones

or try one your friend or co-worker wears so

tery trims brighten blouses, skirts, pants, T-

or other jewels and, unfortunately, fur. Note:

you can smell/wear a scent for a while, as fra-

shirts, ears, necks,

Fur is being used again inside and outside of

grances do smell different on each of us. If you

arms and

shoes, boots, purses, jackets and vests. Please

like the sample, the name is on the card. Fra-

buy responsibly.

grance is, of course, a wonderful gift idea. But

hair.

Wear it day or night,

but

not

from head to toe.

Mix

textures,

please don’t use a heavy hand when applying.

THE GLAMOUR Makeup

re-

There are many who are allergic or overwhelmed by smells in close quarters.

wear casual with

flects the glam-

formal. Add jean

our and really red

or leather jackets

lipsticks

we’ve

You’ll be tempted

and bulky sweaters (cropped or tunic) over

been using, and

with food and drink

THE GRAZING

everywhere

during

long, flowing skirts and dresses. Although the

you

miniskirt length will not go away, longer hem-

plenty of jazz to

the holiday season.

lines are back, worn day or night, straight or

it. Shine up your eyelids and nails with

There

full, medium or maxi.

metallics and glitter. Brush some sparkly blush

events, friends’ cele-

can

add

are

charity

Bright colors such as fuchsia, teal, orange,

across your cheeks and your shoulders. And

brations and parties,

red and blues are big, either in one solid color

don’t overlook the nail polish in colors like

family

or worn with other solid colors. Look for “color

lime green, aqua blue, bright blue, black and

sports events, open houses and office parties, to name just a few. You’re pretty much respon-

gatherings,

blocking” — when there are two or three solid

other not-your-usual pinks and reds. Of

colors in separate pieces or on one dress,

course, there’ll be many choices of silvers and

sible for your choices at a restaurant, a buffet

maybe the top being one color and the bot-

golds. Please note: O.P.I. has a silver shade

or just a plate of cookies or a dessert table.

tom, another color.

Lace is also found on everything — jackets, blouses, skirts, pants and shoes. The same is true of animal skin prints. All this and Peter Pan

called I Love DKMS, and part of the proceeds of its sale goes to one of the largest bonemarrow centers.

Pop on the red

collars, too. It appears we’re still able to pick

lipstick and lip

and choose the looks we like from the 1930s

glosses of your

through all the decades right up to the present.

choice. Some are

Rent a couple of old

shades of blue or

movies, and you’ll

purple with glit-

see what I mean.

ter in them, and

Shoes?

You

some glosses con-

can choose high

tain gold flecks. Line your eyes — catlike or one

and higher plat-

of the other thicker or more unusual styles

forms, some with

being shown, and you’re ready to go.

skinny heels and

Remembering a few simple rules can save you a lot of calories: • Beware of appetizers — they’re usually high in calories, which is why they’re so tasty.

• Concentrate on fresh veggies, if available.

• When dining out, order a salad with dressing on the side, or request vegetables to replace meat or chicken in pasta dishes or on a pizza, etc.

• Avoid foods which are fried, breaded or covered with creamy sauces.

Well, almost. Fragrance options continue to appear almost daily. Choosing a fragrance

Desserts present another opportunity to

and chunky heels. Some of the platforms look

can be fun and frustrating. Some are marketed

show your discipline. Fruits are great — unless,

like sculpture. High heels are found in both

for blondes or redheads, brunettes and so on.

of course, they’re buried in puddings, choco-

others

with

big

november/december 2011 |

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W BEAUTY

late, pastries, cakes, pies and the other ways you’ll probably find them.

If you must be decadent, share with at least one other person.

And now for the liquid calories: First, let me say how appalled I was to read recent study information declaring diet sodas may make you fat! Are you kidding? What about those of us who order a diet cola with our fudge brownie?

I’ll discuss these findings for a minute before we get to the holiday celebratory party beverages. The growth in waist circumferences of those who participated in the decade-long study and consumed two or more diet drinks per day was found to be five times larger than those who did not drink diet sodas.

Additionally, 65 percent of the diet soda drinkers were more likely to become overweight or obese (not just larger-waisted).

The study, conducted at the UT Health Science Center at San Antonio, revealed that even though our senses/taste buds recognize we are having something sweet, the brain’s reward center indicates it’s not as much of a reward as it was expecting when the drink is artificially sweetened. We then try something else, maybe something salty, to satisfy the reward center. The studies also showed possible relationships between drinking diet sodas daily and increased chances to develop high blood sugar, high cholesterol, belly fat, diabetes, stroke or heart attack. So, goodbye to Cuba Libres made with diet cola.

Now to the other beverages that are usually offered at most places this season. If a drink has cola, creams or creamy liquors, certain fruit juices or sugar added to the recipe, it will also have added calories. Alcoholic drinks with water or fizzy mineral water will have fewer calories, as will many wines. Dilute your wine with juice or clear sodas, making it a spritzer. A good practice is to drink a glass of water between any alcoholic drinks. The best thing to do is have a dedicated driver. If you can’t find a volunteer, call one of the taxi companies or other services offering a free ride during this time of the year. Look for advertising about these services during the holidays.

Here are a few modifications suggested in the book Eat This Not That for cutting 500 to 1,000 calories from just one of those big holiday meals: Eat the white meat of turkey instead of the dark, pick the green bean casserole or other vegetables instead

of

dressing,

select

the

mashed potatoes over sweet potatoes with marshmallows, a roll instead of cornbread and pumpkin pie instead of pecan pie. Of course, there are tips for all occasions in the book. Those I mentioned don’t really seem to deprive you of enjoying an entire meal with dessert.

Have happy, glittery holidays, and remember the reasons for the seasons.

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W HEALTH MATTERS

Low back pain?

Suffer no more!

Lifestyle changes can alleviate back pain

By KELLY A. GOFF

B

ack pain affects 80 percent of Americans at some time in their lives. It’s the leading cause of disability in Americans under 45 years of age, according to the National Institute of Health Statistics survey. Indeed, more than 26 million Americans between the ages of 20 and 64 experience frequent back pain.

Symptoms of back pain may include:

pain can arise from problems with any of

sharp, shooting pain through the buttock

• Muscle ache

these component parts. In some people,

and back of the leg.

• Shooting or stabbing pain

no specific cause for their back pain can

• Pain that radiates down your leg

be found.

• Limited flexibility or range of motion of your back • Inability to stand straight Back pain that lasts from a few days to a few weeks is considered acute. Pain that lasts for three months or longer is consid-

• Arthritis: The joints most commonly affected by osteoarthritis are the hips,

Strains — Back pain most often occurs:

hands, knees and lower back. In some

• From strained muscles and ligaments

cases arthritis in the spine can lead to a

• From improper or heavy lifting

narrowing of the space around the spinal

• After a sudden awkward movement

cord, a condition called spinal stenosis.

• Sometimes a muscle spasm can cause or be associated with back pain.

• Skeletal irregularities: Back pain can occur if your spine curves in an abnormal

ered chronic. While acute pain is a normal

Structural problems — In some cases,

sensation triggered in the nervous system

back pain may be caused by structural

come exaggerated, your upper back may

to alert you to possible injury and the need

problems, such as:

look abnormally rounded or your lower

way. If the natural curves in your spine be-

to take care of yourself, chronic pain is dif-

• Bulging or ruptured disks: Disks act

back may arch excessively. Scoliosis, a con-

ferent. Chronic pain persists. Pain signals

as cushions between the vertebrae in

dition in which your spine curves to the

keep firing in the nervous system for

your spine. Sometimes, the soft material

side, also may lead to back pain.

weeks, months, even years.

inside a disk may bulge out of place or

• Osteoporosis: Compression fractures

rupture and press on a nerve. But even

of your spine's vertebrae can occur if your

so, many people who have bulging or

bones become porous and brittle.

CAUSES Your back is an intricate structure composed of bones, muscles, ligaments,

herniated disks experience no pain from the condition.

Rare but serious conditions — In rare cases, back pain may be related to:

tendons and disks. Disks are the carti-

• Sciatica: If a bulging or herniated disk

• Cauda equina syndrome: This is a se-

lage-like pads that act as cushions be-

presses on the main nerve that travels

rious neurological problem affecting a

tween the segments of your spine. Back

down your leg, it can cause sciatica —

bundle of nerve roots that serve your lower

68 | sawoman.com

EDITOR W

november/december 2011 |

69

W HEALTH MATTERS

It happened to me!

Young adults not immune to back pain Although the prevalence of back pain definitely increases with age, usually because of contributing conditions like arthritis, it does not leave the young alone. Megan Mares, a sophomore at San Antonio College, found herself almost debilitated with back pain last spring. “I think it was brought on by a combination of things: bad posture, a bad bed, a heavy backpack and a heavy me,” laughs Mares as she recalls the painful period. “All of these things took a toll on my — what I thought was invincible — back.”

Working as a babysitter was a daily challenge as she struggled with low back pain that radiated down her left leg.

“When I couldn’t even sit on the floor to play Legos, I knew I had a problem,” says Mares. “Little ones don’t want to hear that your can’t pick them up because your back hurts.”

Even sleeping was difficult for Mares: “I’d prop myself up in bed, just me and eight pillows strategically placed under my back, legs, etc. — otherwise I couldn’t sleep.”

She found temporary relief from a heating pad and ibuprofen. She started doing stretches she’d found on YouTube videos and from Google searches. “But regular exercise was the real answer to my problems — mainly running,” shares Mares. “I was fed up one day after not being able to reach for my socks because it hurt too much. I had this sudden urge to just run. And so I did. I kept running through the ache for a few weeks. Then I went to a running store and had a gait analysis done, bought new shoes that fit my feet and supported my weight and the way I ran. After that the pain was gone, and I felt better all over.”

Since May 2011, Mares has shed more than 40 pounds, does yoga three times a week and runs regularly. “I really feel like it has everything to do with the choices I’m making. I’m choosing to go to the gym, I’m aware of my posture, and I’m choosing not to carry around a backpack that feels like it weighs as much as I do!”

70 | sawoman.com

HEALTH MATTERS W

back and legs. It can cause weakness in the legs, numbness in the "saddle" or groin area, and loss of bowel or bladder control.

• Cancer in the spine: A tumor on the spine can press on a nerve, causing back pain.

• Infection of the spine: If a fever and a tender, warm area accompany back pain, the cause could be an infection.

WHEN TO SEE A DOCTOR Local neurosurgeon and San Antonio native Dr. Gerardo Zavala, II, says most back pain gradually improves with home treatment and self-care. Although the pain may take several weeks to disap-

may aggravate pain) is shown to lead to more rapid recovery than

Exercise is one of the only evidence-based, effective treatments for chronic low back pain.

bed rest. The most common situations to avoid are prolonged sit-

Source: Cleveland Clinic

pear completely, you should notice some improvement within the first 72 hours of self-care.

For acute back pain, research shows long periods of bed rest are not beneficial and that modified activity (avoiding activities that

ting or standing. Low-stress aerobic activities, especially walking, are the best early activities.

Often doctors will recommend two or three days of limited bed rest and low-stress activities coupled with acetaminophen (Tylenol®) for pain.

Even for degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis, treatment

that emphasize core strength are key to keeping the low back supported and resistant to injury.”

It’s only when the conservative treatment fails and pathology becomes more acute, like a slipped disc, fracture, instability or pinched nerve, that surgery enters the treatment picture.

with NSAIDs (prescribed or over-the-counter) or acetaminophen

“My philosophy with surgical intervention is to 'proceed with cau-

have been shown to be as effective as muscle relaxants or opioids.

tion',” says Dr. Zavala. “Surgery is an invasive endeavor, which

Of course, the best medicine of all is prevention. “The best way

should be addressed with mutual respect and partnership between

to prevent low back pain is to maintain a healthy weight,” advises

surgeon and patient. Therefore, when considering surgical treat-

Dr. Zavala. “Regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, yoga and

ment, conservative measures should have been exhausted prior to

stretching, is best to keep the back flexible and strong. Exercises

serious surgical consideration.”

november/december 2011 |

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W

The Captain of Your Team

W

e all know what happens when there are too many cooks in a kitchen, right? If there is not a head chef to direct the efforts then there can be complete chaos. The same is true with your health care. If you do not have a primary care physician overseeing and orchestrating your health care, you may not be receiving the best care available.

Since its beginning in 1994, HealthTexas Medical Group has set itself apart as the leader in primary or “family” care in San Antonio. This distinct recognition comes from a variety of independent, third party physician peer surveys. One such survey is Best Doctors in America®. Less than 5% of physicians in the United States are listed as Best Doctors in America®. HealthTexas Medical Group of San Antonio has over 90% of its physicians listed as Best Doctors in America® and 100% of HealthTexas doctors are recognized as Top Doctors in San Antonio®.

With 14 locations and 36 providers to oversee and orchestrate your primary care, HealthTexas Medical Group brings its caring expertise to the general public. Where HealthTexas sets itself apart is how, as primary care doctors, they direct the total health care of each patient.

Statistically it is shown that when one primary physician oversees the care of a patient, the patient receives better quality care and avoids unnecessary procedures or expenditures. If a referral is needed to a specialist, the HealthTexas doctor provides that referral and the specialist reports back to the primary care doctor the outcome.

This way, all the physicians and the patient are on the same page. With the most advanced Electronic Medical Records (EMR) system available, the specialized award-winning Art & Quality of Medicine Program™ along with the one-on-one direct care provided by HealthTexas physicians, patients receive the right care in the right way.

Another way HealthTexas doctors set themselves apart from other doctors is how they oversee the care of their patients in the hospital. This standard of primary care may appear to be old fashioned but it is very effective. This is only one way HealthTexas maintains such a high level of primary care expertise. The ultimate goal is to treat and empower patients to live healthier, more fulfilling lives!

Preventive primary care is not all that HealthTexas doctors are recognized for. Each HealthTexas location has same day urgent care SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

72 | sawoman.com

appointments to tend to any little emergency that may happen during the day. Along with daily urgent care appointments, HealthTexas also offers Saturday appointments.

Patient satisfaction surveys show HealthTexas truly is empowering its patients to live healthier, happier lives. Over 95% of existing patients would recommend their HealthTexas physician to a friend and 98% feel they receive efficient and appropriate care.

Excellent doctors and satisfied patients are not all that makes HealthTexas Medical Group of San Antonio the best. The San Antonio Express-News and San Antonio Business Journal surveyed thousands of employees of local companies. HealthTexas Medical Group of San Antonio was recently recognized as a Top Work Place in San Antonio 2011. Unmatched medical primary care, satisfied patients and motivated employees make for a wonderful combination for San Antonio families.

HealthTexas Medical Group of San Antonio accepts most major health plans and all HealthTexas physicians welcome new patients.

For more information, check out www.healthtexas.org or call (210) 731-4864.

W AROUND TOWN

MORGAN'S WONDERLAND PRESENTS

"FREE TO SOAR" GALA 1. Gordon Hartman (left), founder of The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation, joined Dave Force (right), Morgan's Wonderland general manager, with three of five 1

Walk of Fame honorees — Judy Hendon,

4

Sanh Ann Moss and Neil Peltier 2. Michael Hitchcock, president of the San Antonio Scorpions pro soccer team, and Eva Longoria 3. Maggie and Morgan Hartman, the inspiration for Morgan's Wonderland

2

WINGS PRESENTS

5

WINGS ANNUAL GALA 4. Sandy Bindseil, Mary Brymer, Barbara Melzer, Dr. Kathryn Safford and Amy Luther 5. Linda, Terri and David Jones 6. Dr. Juan and Joni Reyna

3

74 | sawoman.com

6

SA Woman Connect Women in Business Directory

76 | sawoman.com

Women in Business Directory SA Woman Connect

Accounting Hill & Ford, P.C. Cert. Public Accountants

Banking Broadway Bank

Kimberly C. Ford, - Managing Partner 8620 N. New Braunfels, Ste 300 San Antonio, TX 78217 Phone: (210) 340-8351 Email: kford@hf-cpa.com Website: www.hf-cpa.com We specialize in forensic accounting, litigation support and business valuations. We also help business owners achieve their financial goals by providing business consulting, income tax, estate tax and successions planning.

Pam Parish - Group EVP Wealth Management 1177 N.E. Loop 410 • San Antonio, TX 78209 Phone: (210) 283-6500 Email: pparish@broadwaybank.com Website: www.broadwaybank.com Broadway Bank’s Wealth Management services provide trusted solutions that help you build, preserve and transfer your wealth across generations. Our priority is to provide the highest level of service while meeting the unique objections of each client. See ad on page 6.

Advertising, Marketing and Public Relations

Business Coaches

esd & associates Christine Kleha - Partner 1202 W.Bitters, Bldg. 9 • San Antonio, TX 78216 Phone: (210) 348-8008 Email: info@esdandassociates.com Website: www.esdandassociates.com esd & associates is San Antonio’s leading digital creative agency, specializing in branding/marketing, website/mobile app development, search engine optimization, search engine marketing, public relations and social media.

EGR Communications Evie Reichel P.O. Box 171254 • San Antonio, Texas 78217 Phone: (210) 872-3843 Email: evgr@earthlink.net EGR Communications develops visibility campaigns to build brand identity through media and community relations, strategic vision and planning to grow market share creatively and cost efficiently.

Elliott Connection, LLC Linda Elliott P.O. Box 461186 • San Antonio, TX 78246 2013 Broadway • San Antonio, TX 78215 Phone: (210) 495-1733 Email: linda@elliottconnection.com Website: www.elliottconnection.com Creates and promotes strategic alliances through “targeted” relationships, resulting in increased profits and visibility.

Kirk Marketing Solutions Darlene Kirk - Owner 10004 Wurzbach #259 • San Antonio, TX 78230 Phone: (210) 232-8687 Email: darlene@kirkmktg.com Website: www.kirkmktgblog.com

Foxworth Consulting Group Patsy Foxworth – President/Owner, Business Coach-Consultant Phone: (210)-846-4150 Email: patsy@foxworthgroup.com Facebook: pfoxworth Twitter: pfoxworth Linkedin: pfoxworth Patsy Foxworth is an Executive Business Coach, who works with company executives and business owners to take them to the next level in their businesses and personally. She is a 25-year San Antonio metro resident.

Catering Fresh Horizons Caryn Hasslocher, CMP 2020 Broadway • San Antonio, Texas 78215 Phone: (210) 226-5919 Email: caryn@freshhorizons.com Website: www.freshhorizons.com At Fresh Horizons, our name and reputation are built on freshness. Whether intimate or grand, we will create a signature event that is distinctively you! Let Fresh Horizons make you

a guest at your next event!

Commercial Real Estate Drake Commercial Deborah Bauer, President 19310 Stone Oak Pkwy#201 San Antonio, Texas 78258 Phone: (210) 402-6363 Email: deborah@drakecommercial.com Website: www.drakecommercial.com Drake Commercial Group is a commercial real estate company dedicated to providing the finest commercial brokerage services. For over 25 years, we have focused solely on matching the right clients with the right properties.

Kirk Marketing Solutions is an Interactive Marketing Firm. Services include Mobile Web-Sites, QR Codes, Text Messaging, Social Media Management & Training and Promotional Products.

Kirk Marketing Solutions Building Businesses that Build People. november/december 2011 |

77

SA Woman Connect Women in Business Directory

Can we talk about your reputation?

In ancient Greece it was areté, during the Renaissance it was dubbed honor and today we call it branding. It's important to understand how others perceive you and your company; success depends upon it.

EGR Communications develops visibility campaigns to build identity, grow market share and expand business creatively and cost efficiently.

(210) 872-3843

Consignment Shops Off My Rocker • Branding and Image Development • Strategic Vision and Marketing • Media Relations • Media Training • Crisis Communications • Partnership Marketing • Community Involvement and Charitable Giving

Jo Lynn Swint 204 W. Olmos • San Antonio, Texas 78212 Phone: (210) 826-0250 Email: offmyrocker@grandecom.net Website: www.offmyrockersa.com Off My Rocker has grown to be one of the most successful consignment shops in the area ad beyond. Definitely on the list for antique shoppers and “junkers”! There is everything from the elegant item to the salvaged architectural piece! The shop is a mixture of delightful and unusual pieces of furniture, lighting, art, rugs and collectibles. New consignment items arrive daily.

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.

Financial Services Sapient Financial Group Annette Pico – Financial Service Professional 10101 Reunion Place, Suite 300 San Antonio, TX, 78216 Phone: (210) 384-5312 Email: apico@financialguide.com Website: www.financialguide.com/annette-pico My primary objective is to help woman achieve financial freedom in a complex and constantly changing world by designing strategies to help women achieve with what is most important to them.

78 | sawoman.com

Women in Business Directory SA Woman Connect

Food and Travel Writing JanisTurk Janis Turk P.O. Box 608 • Seguin, Texas 78156 Phone: (830) 372-6079 Email: janis@janisturk.com Website: www.janisturk.com Janis Turk is an award-winning travel and food writer and the author of Frommer’s San Antonio & Austin Day by Day. A guest travel expert appearing on the San Antonio Living show, Janis Turk is the go-to writer for editors seeking dynamic features and travel advice.

Investments San Antonio Capital & Trust Whitney E. Solcher, President SA Capital Mgmt 7373 Broadway, Ste. 401• San Antonio, TX 78209 Phone: (210) 233-6065 Email: wsolcher@sacaptrust.com Website: www.sacaptrust.com An independent Registered Investment Advisor and Trust Company, providing Texas families with thoughtful, efficient, and diversified investment strategies in an environment of transparency and trust.

Jewelers C. Aaron Peñaloza Jewelers Mary Peñaloza 999 E. Basse Road, Suite 181 • San Antonio, TX 78209 Phone: (210) 822-4044 Email: info@penaloza.com Website: www.penaloza.com Located in the Shops at Lincoln Heights, C. Aaron Peñaloza Jewelers is dedicated to personal attention. “If it is important to you, it is important to us.” You will find a relaxed, inviting atmosphere in which to select from a beautiful blend of fine jewelry.

Classic styles are mixed with innovative designs. In addition to many designer lines, C. Aaron Peñaloza Jewelers offers a wide array of estate and consignment jewelry.

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.

november/december 2011 |

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SA Woman Connect Women in Business Directory

Medical C.I. Clinton Rheumatology, PLLC Chelsea Inez Clinton, M.D. – Rheumatologist/Owner Erin Bell – Office Manager 18585 Sigma Rd., Suite 102 • San Antonio, TX 78258 Phone: (210) 591-0688 Email: cicr2009@gmail.com Website: www.SARheumatology.com Dr. Clinton specializes in all forms of arthritis and rheumatologic autoimmune conditions. Patients get personalized care and will always see the physician at thier appointments.

Photography Portraits by Janet the photographer Janet Rogers – Owner Phone: (210) 828-6209 Email:janetphoto@sbcglobal.net Website: www.strictlyartphotography.com When you want the moment to last forever, find a photographic master craftsman - Janet Rogers. Capturing personalities in portraiture that is art to be treasured for a lifetime. Also, specializing in limited edition art prints.

80 | sawoman.com

Liz Garza Williams Photographer, LLC Liz Garza Williams – Owner 304 N. Presa • San Antonio, TX 78205 Phone: (210) 299-4000 Email: lizgw@swbell.net Website: www.lizgarzawilliams.com Liz Garza Williams captures the essence of her subjects, placing her among the most respected fashion photographers. A member of Women in Photography International, she received an honorable mention for photography in their competition.

Tourism Daisy Tours-Conventions San Antonio June Bratcher, CEO/Founder 1505 E. Houston St. • San Antonio, TX 78202 Phone: (210) 225-8600 Email: june@daisytours.com Website: www.conventionssa.com A deluxe charter coach and convention planning provider with over 30 years experience in destination management. Voted San Antonio’s best motor-coach company by hospitality industry. Supreme service to national and international cities.

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W DOLLARS & SENSE

Should You Buy American

This Holiday?

It’s not a simple question

By MARY ANNE COLE

I

admit it: I do some things that don’t make financial sense. I choose mom-and-pop stores when I can, even if I have to pay a few dollars more for the same item. I buy from the small town where my family has a summer cottage, rather than seeking lower prices in a larger town only a few miles away. I buy from stores with nice atmospheres and friendly salespeople, even if I have to pay more than I would at warehouse stores. I buy fruit and vegetables at roadside stands. I drive farther and pay more to avoid buying gas from the two mega-companies that avoided taking responsibility for big oil spills.

manufacturers. One of the reasons American products tend to cost more is that American manufacturers must abide by regulations that protect consumers, workers and the environment from danger and exploitation. Human nature being what it is, these regulations have been put in place to prevent owners from doing what many of them did before such regulations were imposed: increasing their profits at the expense of consumer and worker safety. A look back at early-20th-century industrial America looks no better than the factories of some unregulated countries today. Part

Call me quirky.

of the premium we pay for American products is the assurance these regulations pro-

Lately, several acquaintances have sug-

American workers need jobs, so if we can

gested adding to this list choosing prod-

afford to do it, shouldn’t we support Amer-

vide that the products are safe and that

ucts that may be more expensive but that

ican workers by buying American? The an-

they are not produced by abusing labor or

are American-made over ones that are less

swer is not as simple as it seems.

the environment.

expensive but made elsewhere. With the

Some people prefer to buy American

But the question remains: Is it better

holidays upon us, now is a good time to

products because of concerns about the

for the American economy if we buy American?

ask ourselves whether it would help the

quality and safety of foreign-made prod-

American economy if we buy American

ucts and because of reports of worker and

Let’s keep the argument on the small

products. It seems like an obvious choice:

environmental abuse among some foreign

scale here: We’re talking about individual

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DOLLARS & SENSE W

just my view — the trade deficit is a weak argument. About 30 percent of the deficit is oil, and much of the rest of the deficit has to do with currency valuations and our country’s high level of consumerism compared to that of other countries.) If we buy fewer, say, cars from Japan and Germany, they will have less money with which to buy American soybeans, wheat, computers, lumber,

airplanes,

pharmaceuticals,

chemicals and graduate school educations. Sure, some Americans will benefit from our buying American, but others will suffer.

There’s also the argument that, consumers’ decisions, not national trade policy. Steps the govern-

assuming you’re not a multimillionaire, if you buy only American

ment may or may not take to protect American manufacturers and

goods and you pay more for them, you’ll have less to spend and

other businesses are “official” positions of the United States on

will be able to buy less stuff. We may be buying from American

trade, and they can have rapid and far-reaching consequences. For

workers, but we’ll be buying less. Where do they get the market

example, part of the deepening of the Great Depression of the

to make up the difference? From foreign markets. Where do the

1930s is blamed on the Smoot-Hawley Tariff that was passed by

foreign markets get the money to buy American goods? From

Congress and President Hoover in 1930. The highest tariff in U.S.

trade with the United States and everybody else.

history, it was intended to protect American manufacturing by put-

Then there’s the fact that the effort to buy American goods

ting high import duties on more than 3,000 foreign items. Needless

alone can be full of trap doors. Sure, X is made in America, but the

to say, foreign countries, particularly those in Europe, our primary

owner of the company is based in Japan, or it’s put together in the

trade partners at that time, retaliated immediately, effectively clos-

United States, but all its components are made in China, or … you

ing off foreign markets to American goods. If we weren’t going to

get the picture.

buy Swiss watches, then they sure as heck weren’t going to buy American wheat and cars. Oops. So we’re just talking here about you and me, not the country’s official trade policy.

SO WHAT’S THE ANSWER? National and international economics are complex organisms that most of us don’t understand at all and even the most clued-in

THE ARGUMENT IN FAVOR

of us understand only somewhat. Anyone who tells you the answer

If we support American jobs by buying American, one side of

to our economic woes is as simple as “buy American” (or any other

the argument goes, we’ll put more tax money in the U.S. Treasury

solution they can explain on a bumper sticker or a sound bite)

and more money in local retailers’ pockets. Workers outside the

might as well suggest you buy only things that start with the letter

country don’t pay U.S. taxes and don’t buy groceries from local

T. If you’re keen on buying American products, I say go ahead and

stores, so supporting a job from overseas affects more than just

do it, but do it for reasons — and there are many such reasons, not

that one job: it affects all the jobs that worker supports in spending

the least of which are quality, labor, and environmental issues —

his or her money, as well as the national debt when part of the

other than that you think you’re saving American jobs. Stillmadei-

worker’s money doesn’t go into the U.S. Treasury’s coffers in the

nusa.com is a good, non partisan source for finding American-made

form of taxes.

products.)

Another argument is that it is in the U.S.’s best interests to retain

But if you see something this holiday that you think your

our manufacturing ability, rather than focusing only on higher-

Uncle Frank would just adore and it’s not made here, don’t worry

skilled jobs and letting the manufacturing go to developing

that you’ll be stealing the turkey off some American worker’s

economies. Remembering the importance of manufacturing in

table. You’ll be putting money in the pocket of someone who will

World War II, we need to be sure that we have the capability and

turn around and buy an American product s/he can’t get wher-

capacity to manufacture what we need, rather than relying on oth-

ever s/he is.

ers. After all, self-sufficiency is part of the American ethos.

As for me, I’m still going to buy from moms and pops and roadside stands and that funny little town in Wisconsin where my grand-

THE ARGUMENT AGAINST

father bought a cabin on a lake. I like to think it’s more likely that

The other side of the argument says it’s important to look be-

the money will turn around and go back into the local economy

yond the immediate effects of your purchasing decision. If we buy

when mom and pop spend it, rather than going into the black hole

foreign goods, we’ll be putting money in the pockets of more peo-

of some overpaid CEO’s pocket. It might not make any sense, but

ple who will also buy American goods. (In my view — and this is

it makes me feel good.

november/december 2011 |

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W WOMEN IN BUSINESS

The

Business

A visit with four local jewelry designers

By JANIS TURK

Bling

of

“Silver, silver and gold, silver and gold — everyone wishes for silver and gold. How do you measure its worth? Just by the pleasure it gives here on earth …” sung by Burl Ives.

Above, from left to right: jewelry creations by Susan Shaw, Claudia Lobão, Carroll Dorsey Walker of Bejewel and Elizabeth Herff of Hazel Smyth.

E

veryone loves silver and gold, and during this season of lights, tinsel and glitter, it’s fun to glam it up a bit when it comes to holiday wardrobes and acces-

sories. Sure, we enjoy wearing fashionable jewelry year-round, but with holiday parties and the hope of a little box full of “sparkle” in our stockings on Christmas morn, all eyes are on pretty jewelry this time of year.

Luckily, we don’t have to look far to find it.

Forget the North Pole: Santa’s elves don’t make jewelry. Instead, some of the best original jewelry designs on the market today begin right here in San Antonio. Top designers and artisans with gorgeous pieces in gold, silver, turquoise, fine gemstones and more call the Alamo City home, so we asked a few of them how they got their start in the business of bling and what to expect in silver and gold this season.

Each of the four designers we spoke with creates and sells jewelry wholesale to stores across the nation and is proud to call San Antonio home.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS W

Susan Shaw began her career with a papier-maché chile pepper necklace, but today she is producing hand-cast goldand silver-plated metal pieces with pearls and semiprecious stones.

SUSAN SHAW If you were in San Antonio in the 1980s, chances are you either saw or were wearing a little bright red papier-maché chile pepper necklace that Susan Shaw designed. That hot costume jewelry item was just the beginning of a long and successful business.

“I started out as an interior designer, and I did that for a few years after college, but then one day I saw some little peppers at a store and ended up creating the chile pepper necklace. I found little papier-maché peppers and added silver chains and cording so I’d have something fun to wear for Fiesta. It was fun, so I made some more and sold them to my friends. I had a little trunk show (the only one I’ve ever had, before or since) for a few neighbors and

ating 24 karat hand-cast gold- and sterling silver-plated metals.

friends. A lady from a local store came to the show and wanted

I also work with pearls and semiprecious stones, combining them

to buy a bunch of the necklaces, and it just took off from

to create beautiful jewelry collections. Our jewelry is all U.S.

there,” recalls Shaw. “The next thing I knew, someone in Dallas

made, designed and assembled in San Antonio, and the stores

at an apparel mart asked me to put together a line of jewelry

we’re in are higher-end, even though our jewelry isn’t too expen-

for her showroom. So I made pieces that were fun and looked

sive. Our jewelry is in a lot of museum gift shops, like the Smith-

like Fiesta. I knew this was what I wanted to do.

sonian in D.C., the Getty in Los Angeles, the Houston Museum of

“I kept adding completely new pieces all the time, and soon

Art and the Kimball in Fort Worth. Primarily, we’re well known in

people were talking about my jewelry. A sales team with shops

the Northeast and the Deep South and the East Coast,” says

throughout the Southwest then picked up my line. The rest is

Shaw. Today she has more than 2,000 active retail accounts in

history,” she says.

Since those days, her tastes and her jewelry have changed.

“For a while my designs leaned toward a Western look, but

the United States, Canada, the Caribbean and Central and South America. “Every year we’re doing more business than the last,” she says.

today, my jewelry is more classic and simple — traditional, in ster-

Shaw and her family — including her two grown sons and

ling silver and gold. I’ve always created a lot of crosses, though,

their wives — live in Terrell Hills, and theirs is a family business:

which represents a good crossover in design styles,” says Shaw.

“My youngest son, Ryan, went to work with me after he gradu-

“A few years ago I became interested in gold and started cre-

ated from college, and he’s done a wonderful job, and my eldest november/december 2011 |

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W WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Brazilian native Claudia Lobão, famous for her handcrocheted metal pieces, also works with bolder designs. Twenty artisans at a factory in Brazil produce the jewelry.

son, Davin, has his own career. My husband, whom I met at U.T. Austin, has worked with me for more than 25 years, handling the business end of things. We have a team of great employees.

“I always find inspiration in unexpected places. We go to Europe every year, and I see every kind of jewelry, but I keep an eye out for art and other things too. It’s amazing where you’ll see things that inspire you,” says Shaw.

The secret to her success? “If you work hard at something and really concentrate, it can be done,” says Shaw. “One retailer recently said to me, ‘We may have to work harder than we used to just to get the same result these days, but we can still do well.’

That’s true. You just have to be inspired and creative and work hard. Never be afraid to try new things.”

CLAUDIA LOBÃO It seems it was fate — for Claudia Lobão was destined to love San Antonio. Before she ever got here, she loved the idea of it, and she loved the name. Why? Perhaps it’s because she grew up in a neighborhood in Brazil called San Antonio, and years later when she was working a booth at the Saint Anthony market in SoHo selling jewelry, she met a woman from San An-

“We moved here in September 2003. We didn’t know any-

tonio who said people here would love her designs. So when

body, and we didn’t know the city, but we met with the Realtor

Lobão and her husband left New York City to follow their bliss,

and bought our house over the weekend. Two months later, we

they followed it here and made San Antonio, Texas, their home.

were living here,” recalls Lobão. “We got a kiosk at North Star

She explains, “I used to be in banking back in New York, but

Mall to sell my jewelry. Then, 10 months later, we opened a

as a hobby I would make jewelry for myself and my friends.

store in Alamo Heights. A year after that, our wholesale busi-

After the terrorist attacks of 9/11 left us badly shaken, my hus-

ness began picking up, and we started selling to museum

band and I sat down and took stock of things and decided we

stores, and we were recommended to a rep in Dallas, and we

should do what we love because we never know how long we

began selling wholesale on a broader level.

will live. So that’s when I decided to do jewelry for a living. Still,

“While we were still in New York, I had started hiring arti-

I kept my job in banking for another two years while my hus-

sans in Brazil to make the jewelry I designed, and I took

band took classes at the French Culinary Institute in New York

classes in molding and beading. After we moved here, we set

because that’s what he loved to do. By 2003 we moved to San

up our manufacturing studio in Brazil. Today our factory in

Antonio for the better quality of life. We felt it would be a good

Brazil employs 20 artisans, and with their excellent quality of

base for us, and I really liked its name. I grew up in a place

work our business just keeps growing. That’s why we have

named San Antonio in Brazil, and it was one of the happiest

such a big collection, featuring jewelry from bold styles to

times in my life.

dainty ones, for women from 15 years old to 95-plus,” says

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS W

Carroll Dorsey Walker creates bold and colorful pieces with large gemstones. Her jewelry is in all the major markets, and she has studios in San Antonio and New York.

Lobão. “In 2005, we started selling to Julian Gold in San An-

love and being together. Right now we’re getting ready for a

tonio. Now we have reps in different parts of the country. We

trunk show on December 8 and 9 at Julian Gold. We’re busy,

are in about 700 stores worldwide.

and we’re blessed,” she concludes.

“Our lines are contemporary fashion jewelry, and our unique style is reflected in our signature hand-crocheted metal pieces.

We like to bring a little glamour to our designs with bold statement pieces,” says Lobão.

CARROLL DORSEY WALKER – Bejewel If you ever watch Good Morning, America and notice a particularly pretty necklace worn by anchor Robin Roberts, it just

“I began creating hand-crocheted pieces with wire, metal,

might be a piece of jewelry from San Antonio designer Carroll

fabric and Brazilian gemstones back in New York. My grand-

Dorsey Walker. Roberts is just one of several celebrities who don

mother taught me to crochet when I was a little kid, and I only

Walker’s designs, including Nancy Grace and actress Linda

did it to make her happy. Little did I know it would become

Lavin. Walker’s company, Bejewel, has stores on both the East

such an important part of my future,” she comments.

and West Coasts, and her jewelry has also been worn by celebri-

“After I graduated, I came to the United States from Brazil

ties on the red carpet at the Oscars, Emmys and Tony Awards.

and planned to stay only three months. Then I was going to

“When you see something like that and know 100 million

live in Paris, but I met my husband, who was born in Brazil and

people are watching — it’s like ‘Oh, wow!’ It’s surreal. I felt I’d

raised in New York. We fell in love, and today he is my business

really made it in this business when I saw Robin Roberts wear-

partner. We’ve been married 16 years, and we have a daughter,

ing a necklace I’d designed and created,” recalls Walker. “She’d

Valentina, who is 11,” says Lobão.

found my jewelry at market and just loved it.”

“It is important that from our lives we take what we live and

For a business that first began as a hobby, Bejewel has cer-

not what we have. We have to do what we love, and success

tainly hit the big time. Says Walker, “I’ve been designing and

will come after that. Sept. 11 taught us that we have to tell peo-

creating jewelry for about 14 years now. It was one of those

ple that we love them every day and live every moment. Don’t

things that came as a gift from God — I enjoyed it so much and

fight and don’t get nervous. Try to be as happy as you can,”

worked hard at it. It’s truly what I wanted to do. When I started,

says Lobão, who seems pretty happy herself.

I was expecting my son and wanted to do something from

“Our house is like a reality show all the time — the cameras

home for extra income as a young mom. So I began by taking

are always on while we Skype all day with the factory in Brazil.

lessons from Tracy at Nomadic Notions. She was fun and bo-

We have a new dog, and we have a 15-year-old exchange stu-

hemian and encouraged my flamboyant style in jewelry design.

dent from Brazil staying with us, and my mom is visiting too,

After that, I was mostly self-taught. I would get up at 5 a.m.

so it’s always fun at our house. People come over and joke, ‘Are

and write down ideas and draw designs, testing them out to

the cameras always on?’ We just laugh. We’re doing what we

see if they would work for a piece of jewelry.”

november/december 2011 |

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W WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Elizabeth Herff of Hazel Smyth designs jewelry using 14 karat gold, vermeil plating, sterling silver and semiprecious stones. Her new collection was inspired by water lilies.

And it worked, all right. Walker says her jewelry has changed over the years as she’s grown, and her tastes have changed, too. “I started out in this industry when things were small and dainty, but I was a tall person, and I was attracted to

more time with my son, who is now 14, and today I just have two studios,” says Walker.

So what’s the secret to Walker’s success? “Everyday I get to do something that I absolutely love,” she says.

things that were big, colorful and bold. I bucked the trends and went after large gemstones and bigger pieces that were more

ELIZABETH HERFF of Hazel Smyth

defined by structure,” says Walker. “Color is my main thing. I

A San Antonio girl with a passion for details, Hazel Smyth’s

love the natural colors of gemstones. They come from the

designer, Elizabeth Herff, was always a creative person. Even

earth — I like working with things from nature.”

What started as a home-based business soon changed

as a young girl, she was constantly designing things — like hand-painted objects and clay jewelry. In college, as a hobby,

when her jewelry was picked up locally and sold at Julian Gold.

she’d make and sell jewelry to family and friends. “I was always

From there she began taking her jewelry to market in Dallas,

working with beads and different ‘craftsy’ kinds of things,” re-

Atlanta, Las Vegas, Los Angeles and New York, and Walker

calls Herff. While majoring in business marketing at U.T. Austin,

continued to bring out new lines. Today her jewelry is in all the

with a minor in fashion merchandising, Herff also took several

major markets, and she has a studio in San Antonio and one in

design courses. She was smitten with design but now had the

New York.

skills to turn her passion into a business.

“At its zenith, Bejewel could be found in 400 stores nation-

“After college, I worked for Neiman Marcus in their man-

wide, but by 2007, I started downsizing a bit so I could spend

agement training program in their couture buying offices,” re-

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EDITOR W

november/december 2011 |

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W WOMEN IN BUSINESS

calls Herff, “but then after I married my husband. Peter, I left that career and came to S.A. and worked in real estate and retail for a while. When the kids were old enough, I wanted to do something creative once more. I felt there was a need for good-looking, high-quality jewelry — not costume, not fine, but something in between — and I wanted to fill that need. Today my jewelry features 14 karat gold, heavy vermeil plating and sterling silver and semiprecious stones.

“In those early days, I was self-taught, especially in skills like wire-wrapping and beading, but I needed to distinguish my designs and make them my own. So I took courses at the Southwest School of Art & Craft, where I learned about soldering, wax mold-making and wax carving. That’s what I’m going toward now, one-of-a-kind handcrafted pieces incorporating semiprecious stones,” says Herff, who began her company, Hazel Smyth, in 2004.

“I wanted to make sure that the line would work — I didn’t want friends and family to buy my jewelry because they felt obligated to — so I didn’t use my own name. I named the company using my paternal grandmother’s first name, Hazel, and my maternal grandmother’s maiden name, Smyth. If the company were a success, then I could tell people the designs were mine,” says Herff. Today her jewelry is found in stores throughout Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Ohio and Washington.

But Herff says her toughest job isn’t just keeping up with all the demand for her jewelry: “I have a son, Peter, who is 16 and a daughter, Catherine, who is 11 — so my biggest challenge is balancing and keeping the business going forward while taking time to enjoy just being a mother.” Herff and her husband celebrated their 20th wedding anniversary this October; he is involved in another family business with his father at Herff Travel, a San Antonio company in business for 45 years.

“Traveling, we get so many ideas from different cultures and different designs we’ve found all over the world. We like places of natural beauty like Hawaii and Thailand. In Bangkok all the gold and Asian influences there are such an inspiration, and part of a new collection not released yet was inspired by all the lovely water lilies we saw while on safari in South Africa, too,” says Herff.

When asked what her own go-to pieces of jewelry are for her wardrobe, Herff says she likes to keep it simple. “I often wear a gold pendant from my Deco or my Ironwerk collection and gold Deco hoops. I can just throw it on and go,” she says. “Good jewelry is intended to help the wearer complete her look: Each handmade piece should be considered the final, precise brush stroke in a woman’s artistic presentation of herself to her environment. We all just need a little glitter and glam, but a woman’s beauty is not about what she puts on — it’s about the person she is. Everything else should just enhance that and fit to create the finished perfect look.”

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W FOCUS ON FOOD

Chefs Share Their Holiday Favorites They add excitement to traditional menus

By PAT MOZERSKY

Brillat-Savarin, the famous French gastronome of the early 19th century, famously said, “Tell me what you eat, and I’ll tell you what you are.”

The way we like to eat reveals a great deal about us, and our holiday table is a reflection of our personal proclivities. When it comes to Thanksgiving and Christmas feasts, many of us, perhaps the majority, are traditionalists with a definite conservative streak. Year after year, we prepare the cherished old favorites. We pull out the recipes our mothers and grandmothers handed down to us, because without those recipes, the holiday dinner just wouldn’t seem right.

But others among us — the intrepid adventurers — prefer to shake things up. They’re always on the lookout for new and interesting ways to prepare the traditional foods.

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Chances are there’s a turkey or perhaps a rib roast, ham or pork roast as the centerpiece of your holiday meal. Green beans, mashed potatoes (white or sweet), gravy, cranberry sauce, salad and pumpkin pie are appropriate fare to be sure.

But for those yearning to step outside the box, we’ve turned to our chefs and restaurateurs for inspiration, and we’ve hit the jackpot. These sophisticated dishes promise to add instant panache to your menu.

Biga on the Banks chef Bruce Auden’s spectacular salad of crisp pear, soft sweet beets, salty goat feta cheese and peppery arugula undoubtedly will appeal to the sophisticated palate. It’s a marvelous foil for the standard fare of gravytopped turkey, creamy mashed potatoes and the like. It even sports the red and green colors of the season! You can make the dressing and roast the beets a day ahead, then assemble the ingredients right before serving. The recipe is enough for four servings, but just multiply the ingredients for larger groups. This is a salad I’ll make no matter the season.

Photo by BIBB GAULT

FOCUS ON FOOD W

Salad of Arugula, Asian Pear, Beets, Goat Feta and Pepitas

Vinaigrette Dressing: 1 small shallot, finely chopped 1 tablespoon agave nectar 2 ounces pear-infused vinegar 4 ounces extra virgin olive oil

Salad: 2 large beets 1 large Asian pear 4 ounces arugula 4 tablespoons goat feta cheese 4 teaspoons pepitas (pumpkin seeds) 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar (extra fine aged) Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

To prepare Vinaigrette Dressing: In a small bowl, combine shallots, agave nectar and pear vinegar, then whisk in olive oil until dressing is emulsified. Set aside.

To prepare Salad: Cook the beets: either boil them in water until tender, then drain, or wrap them in foil and roast in a 400°F. oven for about 1 hour, or until tender. Allow the beets to cool, then peel and slice them 1/8-inch thick. Set aside. (This can be done a day ahead if desired; refrigerate to store.)

When ready to serve, slice the pear thin. In a bowl, toss the arugula with some of the dressing and divide it between four chilled plates. Top with slices of pear and beets. Crumble the goat feta over the pears and beets, then sprinkle pepitas over top. Drizzle each salad with a little of the dressing and finish with a few drops of balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Makes 4 servings.

Brussels Sprouts Salad with Truffle Oil

Photo by BIBB GAULT

Tost Café Français

These outrageously good Brussels sprouts from Tost Café Français are ample reward for the adventurous diner. Owner Jean-François Poujol shares this stunning recipe for Brussels sprouts created by his chef, John Carpenter. In the past, these diminutive green cabbages were invariably boiled to a sad, grey state and consequently assiduously avoided by many.

Chef Carpenter deep fries the sprouts, (you can also roast them in the oven), then turns them into a succulent side dish or “salad” with the addition of bacon, crumbled blue cheese, a splash of good olive oil and balsamic vinegar and a quick sprinkle of truffle oil. The fact that these can be made up ahead and served at room temperature is a boon to the harried cook on those busy days.

4 cups fresh Brussels sprouts 8 tablespoons crumbled blue cheese 8 tablespoons cooked, chopped bacon 1 cup olive oil (divided use) Balsamic vinegar Salt and freshly ground black pepper Drizzle of truffle oil To roast the Brussels sprouts: Preheat oven to 450°F. Wash the Brussels sprouts, trim off the bottom stems with a sharp paring knife, remove a few of the dark green outer leaves and cut each sprout in half through the stem end. Place them in a roasting pan and add just enough olive oil to lightly coat, turning them to coat all sides. Roast for 12 to 15 minutes until golden brown. (If preferred, you can deep fry the sprouts, then continue with the recipe. Cook them in hot oil brought to 350°F. Cook for up to 5 minutes, no more. Remove them from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.) Allow sprouts to cool to room temperature. (This can be done early in the day. Do not refrigerate.)

To assemble the salad: Warm the sprouts slightly if desired.

Add the blue cheese, chopped bacon, and 1/2 cup of the olive oil.

Season to taste with salt and pepper. Drizzle a tablespoon or two of the balsamic vinegar over top and gently toss to combine. Add just a touch of truffle oil to the top and serve, slightly warm.

Makes 4 servings. november/december 2011 |

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Pl a s ’ e Pi k

ce

Move over, Pumpkin Pie. It’s time to make room for this ethereal Pumpkin Cheesecake, à la Pike’s Place. Suzanne and Kurt Pike are the owners of this new restaurant, but together they have decades of experience in the restaurant business. At Pike’s Place, they make every effort to use fresh-from-the-farm ingredients. They source their meats and poultry, vegetables, eggs and much more from the surrounding area.

This one is for the unrepentant dessert lover, prone to tossing caution to the wind.

The Pikes serve their voluptuous Pumpkin Cheesecake with ginger snap crust and cinnamon-scented house-made crème fraîche. It’s rich, creamy and redolent with the spices of the season. I’m betting that somehow your sated guests will find room for this irresistible pièce de résistance. Reopening in the spring.

Pumpkin Cheesecake Crust: 3 1/2 cups crushed ginger snaps 1/4 cup + 2 tablespoons light brown sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1 cup melted butter Filling: 6 (8-ounce) packages cream cheese, at room temperature 3 1/2 cups pumpkin purée, canned or fresh roasted 6 eggs 2 egg yolks 1/2 cup sour cream 3 cups sugar 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves 1/4 cup all-purpose flour 2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract

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Topping: The restaurant tops its cheesecake with house-made cinnamon crème fraîche, but you can substitute commercial crème fraîche or sour cream, lightly sweetened and with a dash of cinnamon mixed in, if desired.

Preheat oven to 350°F. Prepare the crust: In a medium bowl combine the ginger snap crumbs, brown sugar and cinnamon; add the melted butter and mix well. Press down flat into a parchment paper-lined 9-inch spring form pan. Set aside.

Prepare the filling: Beat the cream cheese until very smooth in an electric mixer. Add the pumpkin purée, eggs, egg yolks, sour cream, sugar and spices. Add the flour and vanilla. Beat until well combined. Pour into crust. Spread out evenly and place in oven for one hour. Remove and let sit for 15 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 4 hours. Serve with a dollop of topping. Makes 8 servings.

WINE W

By DENISE EASDON

T

he holidays are here, a special

the Beaujolais Nouveau be served

topic of discussion. The winery is men-

time of the year to celebrate with

with a slight chill at 52 degrees and

tioned in the movie Sideways. From

friends and family — all the excite-

consumed within the first two to six

the Santa Maria Valley, California, where

ment of catching up on the new and

months of the current vintage.

the old, football scores, latest movies

Another great option is Beaujolais-

the mountains run uniquely east to west, “728” is the mile marker driving in

and a much anticipated holiday din-

Villages, typically a medium- to full-

from the coast, where the vineyard is

ner along with great wine. Whether

bodied wine that can vary in weight

located. Flavors of the wine include

you favor a riotous sports enthusiast

and intensity. The Jean-Marc Burgaud

black fruit delivering alluring black-

crowd or an urbane gathering, this is

Beaujolais-Villages from the Burgundy

berry and black cherry alongside rasp-

the time of year for food and wine

region of France offers suppleness on

berry, with violet and hints of plum

lovers to entertain.

the palate and flavors of dried rasp-

notes rippling through the lengthy, rich

There are four to five preferred

berry and black cherry combining with

and luscious finish. Check out the web-

grape varietals that will take you

wild marjoram notes accenting the

site of the Fiddlehead winery for more

through the beginning, middle and

constituent

facts and details about this wine.

end of your holiday feast. Two red

mended serving temperature for Beau-

From Willamette Valley, the Rap-

grapes are Gamay, from the Beaujolais

jolais-Villages is slightly warmer than

ture Ridge Winery offers a true Ore-

area of France, and Pinot Noir from

Nouveau at 56 to 57 degrees.

gon Pinot Noir (2009) with panache.

cranberries.

Recom-

your favorite region. The whites in-

Pinot Noir is another favored vari-

clude Gewurztraminer, Riesling and

etal for the holiday feast. Because of

duction winery,

the body, structure (light soft tannin)

lively display of Bing cherries and

Chardonnay.

From a family-owned and small-prothis wine offers a

Beaujolais Nouveau is a light and

and red or black fruit flavor compo-

Damson plums dancing alongside soft

fruity wine that is released once a year

nents, almost all Pinot Noir styles, re-

and graceful tannins, finishing with

on the third Thursday of November,

gardless of origin, will pair nicely with

hints of vanilla, cassis and red licorice.

just in time for the holidays. The light-

turkey and accompaniments. Califor-

Both of these wines are prestigious in

bodied Gamay grape of Beaujolais of-

nia and Oregon Pinot Noirs can offer

pedigree and price, but well worth the

fers an easy drinking style and a great

bright red chewy flavors of raspberry,

special occasion of bringing together

start to your dinner. The fresh and

cranberry and cherry, although some

family and friends.

lively acidity will carry you into the

may be more “forest floor” and earthy

heart of the meal as it pairs well with

in style.

Tortoise Creek Pinot Noir 2010, from the south of France, is an exciting

the main components of a traditional

Fiddlehead “728” Pinot Noir 2007

Old World option. It’s definitely a value,

turkey dinner. It is recommended that

is an exciting option, as it can be a lively

with layers upon layers of complexity

W WINE

and jam-packed with flavor. Fresh, luscious black and red fruits tinged with rose petal accents offer a complete and satisfying Pinot Noir experience.

For your white wine options, Gewurztraminers or Rieslings are a good bet. Typically high in acidity, with a light and easy drinking style, these grapes are a nice parallel as they possess adequate richness and depth of character that complement the holiday fare without overpowering it.

Gewurztraminer wines are typically very aromatic and suitably grown in cool climates — a naturally high sugar and acidity style with a common bouquet of lychees. Roses, passion fruit and other floral notes can also be found as a common trait of this grape varietal, which occasionally offers spritz or fine bubbles on the inside of the glass.

J & H Selbach Riesling from Germany is another holiday favorite. It’s crisp and refreshing, offering an effusive aroma of peaches and apricots, luscious tropical fruits of mango and pineapple mid-palate, finishing with concentrated nectarine and a racy mineral component.

A California Chardonnay that is fruit-forward in style can also make a great pairing. Bishop’s Peak 2009 from the Talley vineyards located in the central coast AVA (American Viticultural Area) is medium-bodied and produced entirely from hand-harvested Chardonnay grapes grown in the Talley family’s vineyards. The 2009 vintage offers unique orange blossom with hints of green apple and other tropical fruits. The lively acidity can cut through the weighty portion of the dinner while not overpowering the lighter fare of turkey. The 2010 vintage is similar in style with a bit more green apple and pear components.

Hawkes “Home” Chardonnay from the Alexander Valley area of Sonoma is a full-bodied fruit-forward style with soft nuances of sweet Hungarian oak. The Hawkes Home Chardonnay offers a tremendous depth of character and flavor, displaying refinement and elegance. Mid-palate tropical fruits lead to an exciting finish with a defining mineral component around the pear and green apple. The Alexander Valley area is one of the paramount areas for producing world-renowned Chardonnay.

The Hawes “Home” Chardonnay is a limited production wine of less than 500 cases (current vintages are 2008 and 2009).

Whether hosting or traveling to visit friends and family, take some time to enjoy your favorite wine and celebrate this joyful time of year.

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

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Fun, fashion and giving women WINGS highlight the latest social season

By CAROLE MILLER

T

he San Antonio social season started with a bang with the Boysville Wildest Auction in the West at Freeman Coliseum.

This Texas-sized auction and party is Boysville’s largest

fundraiser. Last year’s big event raised $300,000 in one night to provide for the children living at Boysville. All proceeds from the event provide clothing, food and housing plus medical, dental and therapeutic services for the children of Boysville.

The evening began with meetin’ and greetin’ over cocktails and a silent auction as big as the Lone Star State. Then the crowd was wowed by a spontaneous “flash mob” performed by the folks at Boysville. After that, emcee Sam O’Krent introduced auctioneer Dan Kruse, and the action began with bids on some amazing auction packages, including a “magical whip” that is rumored to bring good luck to its owner for one year. There was also a raffle for a new Ferrari.

After the excitement of the live auction and raffle, Two Tons of Steel took the stage, leaving the crowd dancing till the wee hours of the morning.

Then the Rotarians saddled up and headed out to Welfare, Texas, to host their annual Don Strange Rotary Ranch Party. This night out at the ranch offered great appetizers, a full buffet, an open bar and desserts, all compliments of Don Strange Catering and the Strange family. Cowboys and cowgirls spent the evening dancing to the great sounds of the Rick Cavender Band and participating in the Wine Pull and Balloon Pop. Besides being the best party in town, this event supported atrisk high school students, with proceeds going directly to the club’s signature program, the Sam J. Riklin Diploma Plus Program, to combat the high dropout rate in San Antonio.

After all that Western excitement, Blue Star Contemporary Art Center put its passion for fashion on display with the exhibition Mod-

Top: Emcee Sam O’Krent (center) with Two Tons of Steel at the Boysville Wildest Auction in the West.

Center: Don Strange Rotary party chairs Thad and Anna Ziegler.

Bottom: Artist Alex Rubio with MOSAIC students Beth Rubel, Knee Villegas, Christian Murillo and Paco Garcia at Blue Star’s Models and Mannequins: A Passion for Fashion.

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els and Mannequins: A Passion for Fashion, a great event filled with stylish surprises. The private preview party showcased eight established and emerging artists’ works of art on recycled mannequins using their own unique techniques, approaches and mediums.

Participating artists included Waddy Armstrong, Rodolfo Choperena, father and daughter team Clare and Ken Little, Angelina Mata, Alex Rubio and his MOSAIC students, Kathy Sosa, Michael Wayne and Luisa Wheeler. Proceeds from this fashionable fete went to benefit Blue Star Contemporary Art Center’s exhibitions and MOSAIC education programming.

Not to miss out on all the fashion fun, San Antonio-based luxury realty firm Kuper Sotheby’s International Realty hosted nearly 200 guests at a private Dominion residence to meet Sotheby’s watch specialist Katharine Thomas. This evening offered a private viewing of select timepieces from Sotheby’s exciting upcoming auction, Watches and Clocks in New York, in New York City.

Thomas and her team are currently traveling the country to secure unique offerings for the showing. Sotheby’s watch department offers some of the most significant timepieces in the world — items from the 16th to the 21st centuries, including pocket watches, wrist watches, tourbillons and perpetual calendars. And it holds the auction record for any timepiece with a Patek Philippe piece that sold for more than $11 million. Time is definitely money in this case.

The next event on everyone’s social calendar brought McNay Museum director Bill Chiego and more than 500 of his closest friends together to celebrate his 20 years as museum director. During the evening, several “celebration stations,” including a video in the Frost Octagon, screening of 20 Years and Counting in the Leeper Auditorium, flipbook party favors and special messages from guests in the AT&T Lobby as well as a multitude of delicious food stations and music by Small World, made the evening a tremendous success.

During Chiego’s first 20 years, the museum’s collection more than doubled, from 9,000 to nearly 19,000 works of art. In 2008, Chiego celebrated the completion of an over-$50 million capital campaign and the opening of the Jane and Arthur Stieren Center for Exhibitions, nearly doubling the size of the museum. Chiego also instituted annual fundraising events, established an annual fund and restructured and invigorated the membership program, which has grown from nearly 1,600 members in 1991 to 4,300 today.

And finally it was time once again for the annual WINGS gala, Celebration of Life and Hope. WINGS stands for Women Involved in Nurturing, Giving, Sharing. This organization provides comprehensive breast cancer treatment services to uninsured women in Central and South Texas.

More than 450 people filled the Grand Ballroom at the Omni Hotel at The Colonnade to support this wonderful cause. The evening featured a huge silent auction, the Open Your Purse for WINGS handbag auction, dining on Cajun and Creole delicacies and a spirited live auction that broke all previous records. Event chairwoman Leslie Mouton produced a moving video tribute to the Women of WINGS that was immediately followed by the Give a Woman WINGS auction, which raised $25,000 in less than 10 minutes.

Texas-sized hearts and a spirit of giving that is truly the size of the Lone Star State definitely brought this latest social season to new heights.

Yee ha!

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Top: Lee Richardson with Charley and Sandra Ware at the Kuper Sotheby’s World Class Watch Exhibit.

Center: Margie and Al Miller with McNay director Bill Chiego and Liz Chiego.

Bottom: Tony Mattox with WINGS emcee Leslie Mouton.

Women’s

Wellness

Handling Holiday Stress How to outsmart the pressure the holidays bring

By ANNE MOORE

‘T

is the season to be jolly, fa-la-la-la-la and stuff. It also becomes the season of stress for many, many of us. There’s the gift buying, wrapping and mailing. There’s the decorating inside and outside. If you’re entertaining at your home, there’s extra pressure for everything to be neat and beautiful; for the meal planning and the grocery shopping and the cooking. If you’re having house guests, there’s the additional preparation required.

If you’re going out to various parties, church events and office celebrations or you’re taking others out, caring for your clothing, hair

and nails becomes more necessary and adds additional pressures. If you have children, multiply your obligations by their school, sports and entertainment activities. Responsibilities involving relatives can mean a lot more chauffeuring around town and maybe even a longdistance trip. Obviously, these all require large commitments of time and money.

Oh yes, we’re supposed to smile through it all, even with a hurting head or painful feet or emotional issues related to the season and dodging drinking drivers.

In many families, interactions with relatives add a different kind of stress. Any and all of the stressors mentioned can cause another reaction: eating/gaining weight because of the increased opportunities for eating fattening foods plus the fact that many of us eat mindlessly when stressed. Before we know it, we’ve downed a handful of snacks, several cookies and chocolate anything.

W WOMENS WELLNESS

Women’s

Wellness

STRESS SAVERS You might try a few of the following suggestions to help stave off some seasonal stress before it gets a hold on you: 1 Collect mailing and wrapping supplies — boxes of various sizes, papers, ribbons, bows, tapes, “noodles,” etc., ahead of time.

2 Gather decorating, cooking and serving supplies — forks, knives, spoons, plates and transportation materials for carrying foods or drinks so you’ll be prepared.

3 Plan ahead for any entertainment you’re anticipating — the decorating, themes, colors, lights, flowers — so you can gather supplies early and select, write and mail your invitations in a timely manner. After all, you’re not the only one entertaining this year.

4 When possible, let someone else do it! This could include shopping, wrapping, cooking, cleaning, carpooling and so forth.

5 Cook ahead and freeze whenever possible to be prepared for expected or unexpected company.

6 Have a catered event or suggest a potluck or a “stated” where each person is assigned something to bring — a specific vegetable, bread, dessert, salad, etc. This sometimes even includes the recipes, and it ends with a tasty, balanced meal. It’s also fun to have everyone gather with their ingredients and cook them right in your kitchen.

7 Update your names, telephone numbers and addresses, in order.

8 Start placing dates for yourself and family members on a “universal holiday calendar” as soon as you receive the invitations.

9 Check out and prepare your holiday clothes, filling in where needed, in advance.

10 Make hair and nail appointments far in advance, if possible.

11 If you color your own hair (admit it — some of us do), take care of it before the parties/events begin.

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1 6

9

7

14 15

12 Re-gift if you feel comfortable doing so. Recycling is a good thing.

13 Purchase and give the same gift to as many people as possible, where appropriate. Big timesaver.

14 Instead of exchanging gifts with family and friends, gather for a meal or cocktails, or tamales — just enjoying each other’s company. A win-win strategy.

15 Bake or make something yourself as your gifts to others.

16 Order online, especially from organizations where your donations of money or for gifts of seeds, animals, clean water, water wells and other types of relief are made in the

17

name of the gift recipient. It’s fast. It’s easy. It’s a good thing.

17

Support our local symphony

and theaters by attending yourself, taking others as a gift or giving tickets as gifts. It’s as easy as a telephone call for tickets. No shopping or wrapping.

18 If you are ill or you are a supervisor or co-worker of someone who is ill, please do not go to work or encourage the other person to bring the illness to the office — you’re not doing yourself or anyone else a favor by spreading sickness, especially during this time of the year. This applies to social events as well.

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1 2 dule an rself. Sche ge, a u o y r e p m Pa ssa nt for a ma appointme r relaxing service. e facial or oth

STRESS SOLUTIONS So, when you do get stressed out, and we know you will, here are a few solutions to try: 1 Just say “no.” There comes a time when we’re overwhelmed and should stop taking on extra requests for our time or that of family members.

2 Pamper yourself. Schedule an appointment for a massage, a facial or other relaxing service. A few of the types of massage include: • Swedish — very gentle and relaxing. Add essential oils and it becomes an aromatherapy massage, which also increases stress reduction, since selected oils can also elevate your mood. Some massage clinics offer massages that concentrate on the back area. For your neck and shoulders, try a massage in specially designed chairs located at Central Market, malls and other stores.

• Hot Stone — smooth stones are heated and placed on certain points of the body to warm and loosen tight muscles. The massage therapist may apply light pressure to certain points on your body to help release muscle tension.

• Shiatsu — a form of massage from Japan in which the fingers apply firm pressure to acupuncture-type points on the body to relax the tension.

• Reflexology — not just a foot massage. Pressure is applied to specific points located on the bottoms of the feet, each corresponding to specific organs and systems in your body. It is very relaxing, and, yes, it feels oh-so-good to tired, achy feet.

3 Go play in the mud. Mud-based treatments have been used for centuries for their therapeutic value in relieving tension, sometimes pain, and for skin conditioning and detoxing.

4 Find relaxation in beauty salons and spas. Some salons offer facials in addition to their hair and/or nail services. Day spas will offer a full range of services for relaxation, in addition to massage, soft music and soft lights, grooming treatments such as body wrappings for water loss, temporary fixes for cellulite and other getready-to-party treatments. (Some services offered are not so relaxing, like waxing various body areas.)

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Under the don’tleave-home-without-it category, try some of these home remedies: • Apply a heat source like microwaveable “beanie-bag”-type neck or back wraps or an electronic back or foot massager.

• Place a Styrofoam “noodle” either horizontally or vertically under your back while you slowly roll back and forth over it on the floor.

• Soak in a bathtub, maybe with some added fragrance from essential oils or other scented bath products.

• Sleep. It’s a proven fact that at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep are required by almost everyone, particularly during stressful times. If you don’t sleep enough, your natural sleep-wake cycle can be disrupted. Missing a night of sleep can slow your metabolism by 20 percent the next day.

Certain foods can help as a sleep aid, including the wellknown warm milk (it contains calcium and L-tryptophan, which turns into serotonin).

Some others are cherries (melatonin), bananas (potassium, magnesium and L-trytophan), toast and oatmeal (several of the other sleep-inducing natural ingredients, along with carbohydrates to help speed up the process).

Another suggestion is to stop TV, computer, iPad, night light and other light sources, even those colorful little lights emitted from plugged-in or charging laptops, phones, cameras, etc. Well, that’s what the research showed.

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It’s also recommended that you install black-out curtains in the bedroom.

Writing a list of things “to ignore” could help you balance your list of “to dos.” Things you can add to your ignore list: Temporarily stop obsessing about emails or telephone calls you don’t intend to answer; let dusting or vacuuming slide a few days; and give up the guilt and negative internal dialogue about your decision.

Workouts are good stress-relievers almost any time, but a few types seem to boost your mood more than others.

Practicing yoga (anyone surprised?) increases an amino acid and a neurotransmitter that promote relaxation. Tai Chi is sometimes referred to as “meditation in motion” because of the slow, fluid movements shifting from one side of the body to the other. The pace and rhythm of the movements are said to relax your muscles, calm your mind and improve your balance, strength and flexibility. The Chinese believe it stimulates one’s life force, called Chi. Pilates (I was surprised at this one) practiced two to three times per week is said to put you more in tune with yourself because it focuses on the entire core of the body. Therefore, you become more able to let go of stress and relax.

Don’t be undermined by holiday food and drink. Some of these tips may save you from yourself when tempted to “belly-up” to the bar and buffet.

Eating an apple before going out can make you feel as full as if you’d eaten a whole meal.

Nuts (caution: only an ounce or so) can help you avoid overeating because they’re very satisfying because of the fiber, protein and fat they contain. Best to eat: almonds, walnuts or pistachios.

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Avocados seem to help you feel satisfied for a longer period of time than many foods, so you’re not as apt to continue tossing down the other goodies served. Just remember — moderation on the guacamole and forget about the chips.

Be aware of your alcohol consumption. First, try to limit yourself to just a couple of somethings — beers, glasses of wine, mixed drinks. Second, do NOT drink and drive. Third, one cocktail a day is OK, but two or more increase your appetite. Studies show those having two or more cocktails per day also have at least ½” larger waistlines than those having one or none. Coincidence? I think not.

My wishes for you and your families are for happy holidays in these difficult economic times, remembering the old (but good) adages like, “It’s the thought that counts,” “True beauty comes from within,” and “It’s better to give than receive.” God Bless America.

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Not Your Ordinary Medical Spa

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s you enter the HealthTexas Rejuvenation Center, you quickly realize you are not at any ordinary medical spa. The folks at HealthTexas have done it right. The décor is simple yet elegant. You know you are in a medical spa yet the feeling is more comfortable than one would expect.

The staff is very attentive and quick to make you feel at ease. In short, if you want to get rid of unwanted hair, reduce signs of skin damage, acne and wrinkles or simply need fillers and Botox®, the HealthTexas Rejuvenation Center is the place for you.

The Sciton laser equipment is state-of-theart with licensed individuals performing the procedures. “What sets us apart from many other medical spas is we have a certified Laser Safety Officer performing the procedures. This means you have a highly skilled professional doing the work instead of someone who may not have gone through such extensive training,” said Abigail Hendershot, who has been a certified LSO over six years.

“Working with the skin is a technical art and you need to know what the client wants and how to best attain those results,” continued Hendershot. The starting point for each new client is a complimentary consultation which includes a VISIA® Skin Analysis.

The goal at HealthTexas Rejuvenation Center is to not only make your skin look as good as possible but to help your skin be as healthy as possible. In the south Texas sun, healthy skin is an on-going battle. There is no cookiecutter procedure at this aesthetic center. Each client receives a customized program to attain optimal results.

The best way to describe this innovative center is by its mission statement: “At HealthTexas Rejuvenation Center, our mission is to provide the best therapeutic and medical aesthetic services to each and every client. We strive to do this through utilizing the highest quality and most advanced technology.

We intend to uphold an atmosphere of professionalism, personal attention, and excellence in care. We focus on educating our clients on maintaining health, wellness and beauty to treat and prevent both the inner and outer signs of aging.”

There is little or no wait time at this center.

You seem to get settled into the comfortable leather couches when you are called in for your appointment. “We understand everyone’s time is valuable so we try to be as efficient as we can,” explained Shyla Casey, the center’s concierge. “Sometimes it gets hectic with clients coming in and the phone ringing,

but it’s all worth it when people are happy with their results.”

Satisfied clients are key to this center’s success. The “Refer A Friend” program is designed to reward satisfied clients and expose new clients to the center’s services. If an existing client refers a friend to the Rejuvenation Center and the friend has a procedure done, the referring friend receives spa credits toward future procedures.

If clients aren’t referring friends, they are holding Private Spa Parties at the Rejuvenation Center. Clients can host a party, mingle among friends and learn about new services or products while receiving spa credits and special discounts that evening.

The Rejuvenation Center can help with anything from acne to wrinkles and everything in between. Some of the more popular procedures and products are Botox® and fillers, SkinTyte, Profractional Laser Resurfacing, Microdermabrasion and Peels along with a full line of Obagi and private label skin care products.

For more information about the HealthTexas Rejuvenation Center, call 210.824.9963

SPECIAL ADVERTISING SECTION

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Finding

Contentment in

Your Life

It’s the little things that count. Really.

By COURTNEY BURKHOLDER

I

f only, if only, if only ... Moms, these

In today’s world, this desire for more

A few weeks ago, we bought our

two words are the bane of content-

is boldly encouraged. Everyone needs

youngest son his first laptop computer.

This wasn’t just any computer; this was

ment in my life, and maybe in your

more, More, MORE! We disguise its true

lives, too. If only I had more money,

ugliness by saying, “But we are living the

the latest and greatest, with all the little

then I would be happy. If only the kids

American dream.” In fact, wanting more is

extras built right into the hard drive. And

made better grades, then I could relax. If

considered a desirable trait in America.

the price was just as dear. The salesman

only I were 10 pounds lighter... If only I

Businesses spend millions of dollars

at Best Buy assured me it had everything

looked like her... If only our house were

searching out people with these character

bigger or had more closet space or I drove a bigger car or had a better job or the house was paid off or we lived closer to family or we could take a vacation or buy a new refrigerator or get Botox or have a tummy-tuck or ...

The “if onlys” in our lives are the culmination of all our wants and desires, all

our son was ecstatic and took it right up

“Content makes poor men rich; discontent makes rich men poor.”

the things we think would make us happy and our lives easier. All the things that

our son needed and would last him for the next 10 years at least. Upon receiving it, to his room to start exploring. Ten minutes later, he was back downstairs. He hadn’t had his new, state-of-the-art, everything-you-could-ever-want-or-need computer for 15 minutes when he innocently asked if he could download something off the Internet for an additional

— Benjamin Franklin

would make us truly content. We falsely

$9.99. I almost keeled over. But the truth was I had no one to blame but myself, for

believe that if we had these things, con-

he had watched me do the same thing

tentment would surely follow. Unfortu-

traits to hire: “He is a real go-getter!” or

many times before. More, more, more.

nately, the “if onlys” are what keep us

“She is super motivated and very ambi-

Never content.

from reaching that ultimate goal of hap-

tious!” Somewhere along the way, we

Have you ever made risotto? When

piness and contentment. Because in truth

have confused an aspiration to improve

you cook risotto, you start by adding a

— and we all know this is true — no matter

ourselves and better our lives as our an-

half cup of liquid to a cup of rice and stir

how much you have, you always want

cestors did with a constant desire for

until it is completely absorbed. Then you

more. It is a vicious and never-ending

more material things — the “things” that

add another half cup of liquid and stir

cycle that is poisoning our lives each and

will make us happy. And this is the exam-

until all that is absorbed. Then you add

every day.

ple we are setting for our children.

another and another and another until

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My family and I made a list of all the things, the important things, that make us feel happy and content, and I want to share them with you. Then make your own list and review it every day.

A family walk

Laughing

Snuggling on the couch

Writing

A tea party Playing basketball a good book Sleeping late

Neighbors and friends Monday Night Football

Car dancing

Playing with Buddy the dog

Football

Choo-choos

Dora the Explorer

Girls

House shoes and rain boots

Fishing

The Spurs

Cooking out

Onze

Working in the yard

Having friends over

Exercise

you have added five cups of liquid. Every time I make risotto, I’m convinced the rice is not going to absorb all the water, and I am going to be left with a watery mess, but somehow the rice just soaks it all in. Children are like risotto. They just keep absorbing, no matter how much we throw at them. They see everything we do, even when we don’t think they are watching. They listen to everything we say, even when we don’t think they can hear us. They are constantly soaking in all that we do and say.

And they are learning. They are discovering what it takes to be happy and content.

What message are we sending our children, what lessons are they learning from us when all they see and hear is discontent with what we have and a constant desire for more or better?

Contentment is not something that is innate; it is a learned behavior. Moms, I think it is time to start teaching our children about being happy and content with what they have and who they are. Our children must learn that always wanting more is a path to discontent that will never bring them the happiness they desire. For new things become old and obsolete, rarely holding their value and never giving as much as they promise.

I say, no more waiting around on those “if onlys” to come to fruition. I’m pledging to be happy and find contentment in my life today! Happiness doesn’t come from a new couch or a video game or a fancy computer. It doesn’t even come from thin thighs or a good grade. It comes from within ... deep inside where no one else can see it until you bring it out to share with others. There will always be newer and greater; there will always be more. So finding your peace and contentment in things that matter, the blessings of the heart, is the first step. And teaching your children to do the same is the second.

Each of us has so much for which to be thankful. So count your blessings, commit to be happy today, and find contentment in the life God has given you.

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TK

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Fleming’s The meat is impressive, and so is happy hour

By RON BECHTOL Photography JANET ROGERS

T

here’s something Mad Men retro about most steakhouses —whether they serenade you with Sinatra or simply shake a stylish martini. Or both. But as these

are not boom times, we suggest a stratagem for struttin’ your own style at a reduced rate: Hit happy hour.

This is especially true at Fleming’s, where their 5 for 6 until 7 policy can get you any of five wines or five cocktails for six bucks until 7 o’clock. Throw in five appetizers, plus a burger, for the same price, and you either have a light dinner or a mighty

fine introduction to a follow-up in the dining room. The clubby bar makes a mean and generously poured Vintage Vodka Martini (with three olives, no less), though they can sub in gin (our preference). There’s also a Clear Cosmo and something cheekily called The Russian Prom Queen, made with Stoli Blueberry.

(Very fragrant, but too sweet for us. We added extra lime.)

Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar, in the Quarry Market, offers intimate dining and a popular happy hour.

At top, the perfectly cooked veal chop.

The apps are not shabby either. A seared tuna with an Asian slaw is frankly the bargain of the day, month or year; roasted mushroom ravioli have a great smoky flavor and sport a lush, creamy sauce; and the beef tenderloin carpac-

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DINING W

Entrees range from meat selections, such as ribeye, to seafood, including lobster tail. Among the desserts are créme brulée with fresh berries and cheesecake topped with blueberry sauce and white chocolate shavings.

cio, though a little baroque for us in all its caper, onion, drizzle and cheesy toast

>

glory, is nevertheless extremely generous and a great companion to, you guessed it, martinis.

By the time you read this, the new fall menu will be out (it’s encouraging that there is a seasonal aspect to the menu, by the way), and some changes will be apparent — namely the appearance of some smaller plates. We didn’t have that option, but are never (well, rarely) ashamed to take home a good-looking doggy bag. (To refuel for writing this, all last night’s veal and beef needed was a little rustic mustard; the flavors were still full.)

But in the run-up to the evening’s entrées, we did something rarely done: We ordered another retro item, the wedge salad.

It arrived on a super-chilled plate with an equally frigid fork. This may not have to be done again for another decade, but if you’re going to order this newly revived classic, Fleming’s is the place to do it. The iceberg was seriously icy-crunchy, the dressing was thick, rich and blessed with loads of blue cheese … all it needed was a little black pepper. OK, we saw you reach for more of the grainy, warm bread. Cut it out; there’s much more to come.

Including wine at prices much more reasonable than had been remembered. (Yes, there’s a pricier captain’s list; we turned it over to avoid temptation.) We ordered a full-bodied 2007 Syrah from Washington State’s Millbrandt Vineyards. Starting out with dominant bacon, smoke, and pepper notes, it eventually blossomed into a nuanced wine with beautiful black fruit as well. And it proved to be a worthy companion to the veal chop and the bone-in ribeye that were soon to follow.

they were impressively mushroomy but just

and women may feel free to conclude with

From ultra-chilled to super heated, the

a touch oily, and crunchy salt would have

chocolate lava cake or walnut turtle pie. We,

plates for meats are hot as a forge, which

played against that. We loved the chipotle

however, tossed in the towel with a shared

may account for the fact that the ribeye

dipping sauce that accompanied the half

wedge (no chilled fork this time) of delicate,

was just a shade over medium rare by the

and half order of shoestring fries and

frozen lemon gingersnap pie. Its anticipated

time we tackled it. But it is undeniably an

stacked, signature onion rings.

lemon foam sauce seemed to be something

impressive presence on the plate — and al-

Nothing was needed on the prodigious

most as impressive on the palate. We both

veal chop, however; it was simply a superb

else entirely, but otherwise the pie was light and lovely, just what was needed.

felt the flavor was equally excellent in the

cut of meat perfectly cooked. Yes, you can

And if it’s not yet time to call it an

bone-in and boneless versions, and that a

order lobster tails, King crab legs and

evening, a retreat back to the bar will re-

little sea salt wouldn’t have been remiss as

Alaskan sole, but really … it’s all about the

ward with Ports, Cognacs and more.

a finishing touch.

meat, and the bigger the better.

There’s something about steakhouse bars

Salt would also have been welcome on

Desserts are nevertheless both permit-

that just makes one feel comfortable and

the side of crisp, French green beans with

ted and probably necessary as an end to an

coddled, and the one at Fleming’s is a

shiitake mushrooms and “porcini essence”;

evening of indulgence. True trenchermen

prime example.

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GIRL SCOUTS OF SOUTHWEST TEXAS PRESENTS

TREFOIL 2011 LUNCHEON HONORING SUZANNE CHEEVER GOUDGE

1

1. Past Trefoil Honorees: Cyndi Taylor Krier, 1988;

4

Nancy Zachry, 2005; Linda Whitacre, 2009; Harriet Marmon Helmle, 2010 2. Jeff and Sara Brouillard with Carrie Dyer 3. Suzanne Peterson and Bob McAdams 4. More Trefoil Honorees: Suzanne Goudge, 2011; Anna Maria Chavez, CEO-Designate Girl Scouts USA; Rosemary Kowalski, 2003; Nancy Loeffler, 2006; Jimmie Ruth Evans, 2007; and Charline McCombs, 1999 2

5. Suzanne with Jim, Kate and Cy Goudge

5

6. Christina House, Suzanne Goudge, Caitlin O’Brien and Lauren Broderick

3

114 | sawoman.com

6

ROLE MODEL W

Helping Others, Helping Herself Tammy Baird finds fulfillment in ministering to those in need

By PAULA ALLEN Photography JANET ROGERS

When Tammy Baird first came to Daily Bread Ministries, she wasn’t looking for a transformation. Then a successful hotel sales executive, she volunteered at the faith-based aid agency, helping to sort donated food and other essential goods to be distributed through Daily Bread’s affiliate organizations.

“It started out as just a casual, Saturday-morning thing,” says Baird, who came to Daily Bread as a member of Cross Mountain Church. As she returned, however, she got to know others who were volunteering through another of the agency’s partners — churches, small shelters and other aid agencies — and was impressed by their stories of despair and renewal.

“A lot of people who come to Daily Bread have made mistakes throughout their lives,” she says. Some were doing court-ordered community service, and others were going through economic hard times and had needed food. “I realized that in our society, if you make poor choices, you may be labeled for life,” says Baird. “When I saw how much people needed hope, I wanted to be part of that.”

After nearly 15 years as a hotel executive, she decided she wanted to make a change in her own life. She told Daily Bread president Seth Kuehn about her background in sales and marketing and

Top, Tammy Baird loves her job as director of marketing and communications at Daily Bread Ministries. Below, she gathers with volunteers Belle Arteaga, Della Ximenez, Consuelo Pesina, Frankie Klonek and Yolanda Alvarez.

asked for a job. “At first, he told me he didn’t know if he could afford me,” says Baird, but within a few months, she was on staff as director of marketing and communications.

Before her position was created last year, “Daily Bread was kind

mission. Now, Daily Bread offers not only food but connections with social services. “We minister to them by connecting them

of under the radar,” says Baird. “Not many people know about the

with resources to change their lives — to get a home, earn a

impact we’ve had. I was hired to create an awareness of the great

diploma, get off addictions and get their health back,” says Baird.

need in our area.” A map of Bexar County at Daily Bread’s head-

“We give them hope.”

quarters bristles with pins that mark more than 200 churches and

When she came to Daily Bread in July 2010, she, too, was looking

other organizations that regularly receive donated food, furniture

for a change. As a sales executive for hotels and resorts, she says, “I

and clothing. While they cluster in the West and South sides of San

had it made. I had a beautiful office, an expense account and a com-

Antonio, plenty of pins also show up on the city’s North side and

pany credit card.” On the other hand, “The old Tammy had to stay

in surrounding small towns.

out wining and dining clients, keeping late hours. I had to bring in

Baird has memorized some grim statistics: San Antonio is one

their business, or I was going to get the boot.” When she moved into

of the nation’s top 20 most economically disadvantaged cities,

her present position with Daily Bread, she says, “I went from being

where one out of four children miss at least one meal every day.

stressed about meeting goals and making money for corporations

Our homeless population is estimated as close to 2,500, and more

to being joyful about bringing in resources for the needy.”

than 200,000 residents are affected by poverty. “Because of the

There was a certain amount of culture shock in making the tran-

economy, we’re seeing people give up,” she says. Many give in to

sition from her old life to ministry. She took a five-figure pay cut

drugs or other addictions; others are frozen in grief for children

and learned to do without “a plush office and an assistant.” At Daily

lost to gang violence.

Bread, Baird shares an office above the warehouse — the former

When Kuehn founded Daily Bread in 1996, it was in a garage,

home of Toudouze wholesale grocery store — with other staff and

and its focus was food distribution. As the agency grew, so did its

volunteers. There are exposed pipes in the low ceiling, space is november/december 2011 |

115

W ROLE MODEL

Baird pitches right in the three mornings each week when food distribution begins at 7 a.m.

gets to work early, since food distribution starts at 7 a.m. three days a week, including Saturday. “I like to be here for the prayer circles when we start the day,” she says. Staff

volunteer. Her former hotel-

and volunteers pray for the people they

industry contacts also have

know are in crisis, many of whom they have

helped out by donating in-

met personally. “We have to minister daily to

and

people who walk in crying,” says Baird. “They

shampoos and even mat-

ask, ‘What am I going to do?’ and we tell

tresses and lamps after ren-

them that it’s going to be all right.”

dividual-size

soaps

ovations. At some of the

Though Baird hears many sad stories,

smaller shelters Daily Bread

some of them have happy endings. She

works with, those mat-

knows of “a young lady addicted to heroin

tresses have made it possi-

for 13 years who lost custody of her two chil-

ble to take in more guests

dren, and who is now a functioning citizen,

in need, and the lamps

reunited with her family.” When a homeless

tight, and the room can buzz with the

“give them light to sit and enjoy reading

man, also addicted, was homeless after his

sounds of other people’s phone conversa-

their Bibles in the evening.”

desperate parents turned him out, Daily

tions. The contrast, Baird says, “never both-

Thanks to her business background, Baird

Bread “fed him and gave him hope,” says

ered me. I don’t care what I have to sacrifice.

is comfortable calling on community-rela-

Baird. “Now he’s recovering and getting a

We are a family here; in the corporate hotel

tions executives at major corporations, mak-

GED, on his way to becoming a fine citizen

industry, I couldn’t speak about my love of

ing the case for donating to Daily Bread.

in our community.”

the Lord, so there was always some conflict

“Sometimes, they’ll tell me, ‘We already give

Recently, Baird has been getting calls

between who I am and what I did.”

to the San Antonio Food Bank and Haven for

from people who have lost their jobs and ask

Although Baird was brought up in East

Hope. Why should we give to you, too?’ This

to volunteer so they can stay busy. Some-

Texas as a Baptist, “elbowed by my grandma

is when I tell them that the need has become

times they bring their résumés. “Coming

if I fell asleep in church,” she became a more

so great, with poverty at an all-time high,

from the hotel industry and with my connec-

committed Christian at age 26, as a single

that we need to work as a team,” she says.

tion with the chambers (of commerce) and the restaurant association,” says Baird, “I’m

mother with two young children. “I wanted

“The need is far greater than any one or two

them to have a purpose-filled life, and with-

organizations can satisfy. We need more av-

able to hand out those résumés.” For the un-

out Christ, there is no purpose-filled life,” she

enues to change lives.”

employed, volunteering “helps their confi-

says. “That’s when change began for me.”

dence

Daily Bread depends on

At times, as she worked toward her deci-

“rescued food” — surplus

sion to switch careers, Baird says, “I’d think,

from large orders or in

‘What are you doing with me, Lord?’” As

slightly damaged packaging

levels,

encourages

them that there’s still some-

"We have to minister daily to people who walk in crying."

where they can be of use.”

More troubling, there are former executives coming to

someone who “got paddled for smoking in

—

the bathroom in high school,” she wondered

restaurants

if she was worthy of ministry, but has come

“Someone will call me and

to believe that “the Lord has placed me here

tell

800

“They’ve never had to reach

for a reason.”

pounds of brisket left over,’

out for help before,” she says.

from

me,

grocery and

‘We

stores, hotels.

have

Daily Bread’s affiliated ministries who have lost their jobs.

“That is very, very hard for them.”

Her husband of 11 years, Butch Baird, has

and we’ll send a truck and take it to, say, Last

been entirely supportive of her move to min-

Chance Ministries on Zarzamora Street,”

Despite the sheer proliferation of misery,

istry. “He’s a man of God,” she says, “and

Baird says. “We’ll pick up sheets and blan-

Baird doesn’t fear burnout: “I never get dis-

what makes me happy makes him happy.” As

kets from a hospital and give them to a shel-

couraged,” she says. “The Lord is my

president of a classic car club, he helped her

ter. Otherwise, some of these things would

strength. When I feel overwhelmed, I stop

organize a car show to raise funds for Daily

just go into a dumpster.”

and pray and stay strong and keep going. I know this is the path where God wanted

Bread. “We saw these guys put their money

If there is too much at one time, Daily

into hot rods, and thought, ‘Why not throw

Bread shares the unexpected wealth. “One

me.” All too often, she says, “We settle for a

some this way?’” The car enthusiasts “had no

day, we received over 100 pallets of ba-

job that makes a living. I am blessed that I

idea of the need out there until we gave

nanas,” Baird says. While they distributed

have been brought to this place where I have

them a tour.”

some of the ripening fruit, there was more

such peace and a sense of belonging, where

Some of Baird’s former colleagues “may

than they could deliver to their partner

I can use all my resources and contacts.”

look at me funny” when they run into her at

agencies within the bananas’ shelf life, so

Asked what she sees in her own future,

meetings, she says. “They start out with

the extras went to the San Antonio Food

Baird says she expects to stay in ministry in-

‘What’s gotten into you?’ but when you sit

Bank. At other times, Daily Bread has

definitely. “I’m here to help, to give hope to

down and tell them about it, they’re in awe.

worked with the Salvation Army, St. Vincent

the lost, to love and give peace to those who

They see that I have changed, and they

de Paul and other food-aid agencies that

are broken,” she says. “If I can change one life

want to know more.” Some have come to

have reciprocal relationships.

daily or give one person hope, that is worth

see the warehouse and even returned to

116 | sawoman.com

Instead of keeping late hours, Baird now

a million dollars.”

ARTBEAT W

A Pin Person and a Lot More Zelime Matthews is an artist of many talents

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF

A

rtist Zelime Matthews is probably best known for the deco-

Photography JANET ROGERS

sign stick together. The next step is to build the additional layers of

rative pins that grace the lapels and shoulders of many

smaller petals and decorations by carefully placing each one on top

women in Texas and beyond. So it’s no wonder that she is wearing

of the previous layer. Tiny bits like stars and circles are added care-

one herself on the day we meet in her studio to talk about art, life

fully, using an Exacto blade. After an additional touch of heat from

and, of course, pins. But the brooch she has on is atypical. Painted

a hair dryer, the shiny artifacts go into the freezer to stop the melt-

opaque gold, it’s a heart-shaped piece featuring a fragmented pat-

ing process. Besides floral shapes, she has many series of pins de-

tern of tiny bars pointing in various directions.

“It’s a broken heart,” she says, fingering the pin. Her good

signed around various themes, from Christmas and Fiesta to Texana, birds, fish, cats and dogs, “Easteresque” and more.

friend’s husband has died, she explains, and she will have to go to

Matthews admits that at some point she had to get help with

the funeral later in the day. We are in the small workroom inside the

the manufacturing part of the business as the demand kept on

larger studio housed in her former garage. Following a brief tour,

growing, taking more and more of her time. “Doing them myself

she sits at a workbench to demonstrate how the pins are made. The

was fun for the first 10,000 or so,” she wrote in a brochure titled

room is like a small factory, with bags of pre-cut shapes hanging on

Confessions of a Pin Person. “It’s a very labor-intensive process.

a wall, drawers crammed with plastic strips and other materials and

Everything must be cut by hand,” she says. She now has 325 differ-

tools of her trade all around, including an electric oven and a freezer.

ent pin designs.

Matthews begins matter-of-factly by pulling a square Pyrex plate

It all started innocently enough with a request for a donation.

out of the oven, where the temperature is kept at 275 degrees at all

“Artists are always asked to donate for fundraising events,” says

times. She chooses a floral design and starts laying down the largest

Matthews, “and so the Zoo called me to donate something for the

petals onto the heated surface of the plate. The heat will keep the

Zoobilation Ball. I had just begun experimenting with pins, and I

plastic malleable enough to make the various elements of the de-

thought, ‘Why don’t I make some for their auction?’ I made three

november/december 2011 |

117

W ARTBEAT Artist Zelime Matthews assembles one of the decorative pins for which she is famous. Among the 325 different pin designs are such themes as Christmas, Fiesta, Texana, animals, "Easteresque" and more.

occupants of the picturesque historical campus on the river.

Mind-bogglingly complex, the huge work — stitched in needlepoint by women in Romania — resembles the old tapestries in European palaces and museums. Every aspect of convent life is represented, including the flora and fauna the nuns either found here or cultivated themselves. The image features 85 different colors, necessitating a precise set of instructions for the needlepointers.

“It was very exciting to see it hung. It was 15 years ago; I remember exactly when it happened because it was my 50th birthday,” says the artist.

Though she works in many media — including acrylics, tile and photography — her themes often revolve around animals and nature scenes. Several paintings in the studio are compositions of landscapes and oversize rabbits or other critters, all painted in bold strokes and colors. The landscapes are easily recognizable as the mountain mesas of New Mexico, where she loves to retreat each March to savor the sights and work in solitude. A gorgeous take on a New Mexico mountain panorama also hangs over her living room’s fireplace. And facing the outside of the studio, another bursting-with-wildlife painting different kinds, all animals, and they all sold out.”

Word spread quickly, and she became really busy. Several local retailers, such as the Fiesta Store, Violet Talk Gifts and Garden Gate

greets her visitors. Nature is clearly close to her heart. “I feel that the best way to appreciate the world around me is to draw it,” notes Matthews. “You never really know a leaf until you draw it.”

Gift Shop at the Botanical Garden, carry her handiwork, and it’s also

But she also makes oil pastels on paper, which she learned to do

sold at craft shows. It’s not unusual for the artist to run into women

through what she calls “my meditations in color.” Inspired by Kelly

sporting her creations. On one occasion, a total stranger wearing

Conkling Schneider’s book, Prayer of the HeART: A Journey Through

one of her pins approached her at the Paris airport after spotting

the HeART with Visual Prayer, the meditation begins with choosing a

a similar ornament on Matthews’ lapel. “Oh, you are wearing a Ze-

spiritual quote to meditate on. She then closes her eyes and does ex-

lime Matthews pin!” the woman exclaimed as if that fact alone con-

actly that, making sure that her colors and pencils are nearby. “The

ferred a sense of sisterhood between them. That was very

book suggests that if an image comes to you, you draw it. It doesn’t

gratifying. “It’s been a lot of fun,” admits the artist. “We get a wide

have to be good art,” she explains. “I prefer not to get an image. What

customer base because the pins are so inexpensive.” However, she

I do is a scribble with my eyes still closed. Then I open my eyes and

recently had to raise the price from $25 to $29 because the cost of

color the scribble, so it becomes a composition. It’s a very freeing ex-

her material had gone up.

ercise. No performance anxiety.” Though her “meditations” have not yet been exhibited, the practice has led her to use the medium else-

A REAL ARTIST

where. “I learned to use oil pastels really well,” she remarks.

Long before she became the queen of whimsical brooches,

Matthews’ work is regularly sold through the Hunt Gallery, where

Matthews was and continues to be a “real artist.” The larger room in

she has had two solo shows in the past and will have a group exhibit

her studio displays canvases and drawings aplenty, including a repro-

this fall. And, yes, oil pastels were part of it, too. Though sales are

duction of a huge tapestry she designed for the chapel of the South-

not what drives her to paint, she admits that selling a piece to a

west Craft Center, now the Southwest School of Art. Commissioned

stranger is deeply satisfying: “It’s a great thrill to sell to someone

by the late Elizabeth Huth Coates, the 13-by-22-foot tapestry depicts

who doesn’t know you. That means they really loved it and don’t care

the history of the Ursuline Convent and girls’ school that were the first

who did it.”

118 | sawoman.com

Alexander Devora

ARTS & CULTURE W

Festive and Fun Music, dance, humor make the holidays bright

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF

‘Tis the season to be merry, and arts organizations are certainly contributing more than their fair share to the mood. From festive concerts and ballet spectaculars to theme-park celebrations and artsy shopping, the city will be awash with holiday offerings for all tastes and budgets. And it all starts early in November, so make your plans accordingly.

Arts San Antonio

Above, Ken-David Masur will conduct the San Antonio Symphony for Ballet San Antonio's production of The Nutcracker Nov. 25-Dec. 2 at the Majestic Theatre. At right, The Kings of Salsa will present Cuban dance Nov. 20 at the Majestic. Below, the cast of A Christmas Carol, the Musical, at San Pedro Playhouse.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC AND

ARTS San Antonio has other treats for us as well. On Nov. 20, The Kings of Salsa

DANCING FEET There’s no Christmas season without The

promise to shake up the Majestic with

Nutcracker, and this year is no different.

Cuban salsa, mambo

Multiple productions punctuate the calen-

backed up by the eight-piece band Cuba

and cha-cha-cha,

dar, attracting thousands of adults and chil-

Ashire with two vocalists. On Dec. 2, Henry

dren. First up is Ballet San Antonio’s

Brun and his Latin Playerz take to the

polished version that will be accompanied

stage at the Empire for a concert of Latin

live by the San Antonio Symphony at the

Christmas music.

Majestic Theatre Nov. 25 through Dec. 2, for

Grand music will be everywhere this sea-

a total of eight performances. San Antonio’s

son. The San Antonio Symphony artistic di-

own professional ballet company has made

rector Sebastian Lang-Lessing will conduct

huge strides in recent years, and its Nut-

three upcoming concerts starting with SLL

cracker has some terrific original touches.

Salutes America (excerpts from West Side

A couple of weeks later (Dec. 16-18),

Story and Porgy and Bess) and continuing

ARTS San Antonio will again bring to town

with Brahms Sings and Rachmaninoff 2, an

the Arlington-based Metropolitan Classical

evening dominated by the composer’s Sym-

Coker United Methodist Church. The popular

Ballet to present its version of the Christ-

phony No. 2. The symphony and the Mas-

Holiday Pops is scheduled for Dec. 16.

mas

Russian-trained

tersingers will then join forces for the annual

Other musical groups are stepping up to

soloists in all the leading roles, including

Messiah concert to be performed this year

the festive plate, too. If you haven’t yet had

Olga Pavlova, the former principal of the

Dec. 2-4 in three locations: University United

a chance to hear the all-female choral en-

Moscow Classical Ballet.

Methodist Church, Trinity Baptist Church and

semble Voci di Sorelle, here is your oppor-

classic

featuring

november/december 2011 |

119

W ARTS & CULTURE

At left, Voci di Sorelle will present Comfort and Joy Dec. 11 in the Chapel of the Incarnate Word. Above, the cast of Fiddler on the Roof, appearing during December at the Majestic Theatre.

tunity — the angelic-sounding group will

tion at the San Pedro Playhouse, and the

launched his one-man version of A Christ-

bring you Comfort and Joy Dec. 11 in the

Broadway Across America series brings us

mas Carol, called Bah Humbug!, in which he

Chapel of the Incarnate Word. The a cap-

the perennially beloved Fiddler on the

portrays all the characters. It’s an amazing

pella program will feature medieval and

Roof. The former stays faithful to the Dick-

and amusing tour de force that you can

Renaissance Christmas music. Meanwhile,

ensian tale but enlivens the action with lots

enjoy again this season, first at Little Italy

the Grammy-nominated Camerata San An-

of dance, giant puppets, flying ghosts and

Restaurant (Nov. 25-26) and then at the Ar-

tonio is planning An English Christmas with

falling snow in addition to songs. (A note:

neson River Theater Dec. 17. The Overtime

three regional performances Dec.8-11, while

The Broadway series at the Majestic con-

Theater, whose popularity seems to grow

Musical Bridges Around the world is going

tinues immediately after the holidays with

with each show, has also cooked up a holi-

international with Golden Fingers and

what is easily the most powerful musical

day show but with a twist. It’s an original

Golden Toes on Dec. 11. The latter is an ex-

ever created: Les Miserables.)

written by James Hartz that promises not to

travaganza spotlighting seven pianists from

Over at the Carver Community Cultural

be “sticky-sweet.” Get ready for yelling,

a number of countries playing together in

Center, the Renaissance Guild will present

lying and violence … you know, the kind of

various combinations — including a piece

Black Nativity, a work created by poet and

stuff that “never happens” at family gather-

for seven pianos — plus a ballet troupe from

playwright Langston Hughes to tell the

ings (Dec.3-Dec.17).

New York (at McAllister Auditorium, SAC).

Christmas story through a combination of

For heavy-duty laughs you may want to

narrative, dance, gospel songs and folk spir-

visit the Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club,

MORE MUSIC AND MUSICALS For those of us who love the heart-

ituals (Dec. 9 and 11).

And let’s not forget our amusement

which is featuring nationally known comedian and radio and TV star D.L. Hughley

piercing sounds of the mariachis, there

parks,

Sea World and Six Flags Fiesta

Dec. 2-4. “He’s our big catch,” says LOL’s

can’t be a better time of the year than this.

Texas, both of which have special holiday

Michele Krier, “and one of the top acts in the

The 17th annual Mariachi Vargas Extrava-

events,

grand illuminations and lots of

country.” Hughley wrote, produced and

ganza Festival kicks off Nov. 27 with a

music. One of the new features at Sea

starred in the ABC/UPN sitcom series The

mariachi mass at San Fernando Cathedral

World this year is A Dolphin Christmas, fea-

Hughleys, appeared on Seinfeld and other

and ends Dec. 3-4 with two evening Mari-

turing Beluga whales, dolphins, acrobats

shows and was a member of Spike Lee’s

achi Vargas concerts at the Lila Cockrell

and trainers executing their moves to the

The Original Kings of Comedy.

Theatre. In between, mariachi musicians

score of The Nutcracker. That should be

from all over the United States participate

something to see! Music and merriment will

in competitions, workshops, River Walk

also be provided by small groups of per-

Yes, shopping, but not at the mall. We are

serenades and more.

formers with names like the Jingle Bells, the

talking about one-of-a-kind gift items pro-

ARTSY SHOPPING

Another seasonal tradition that many

Peppermints and the Blue Pine Trio. And

duced by artists and craftsmen. Two special

look forward to is the Holiday Saxophones

while browsing around you may encounter

markets to explore are Hecho a Mano/Made

with the Regency Jazz Band and other mu-

the Tree Top Angel (an operatic soprano),

by Hand at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Cen-

sicians. The high-power group will perform

roaming the streets of the park singing

ter (Dec. 2-4) and Art.i.copia at the South-

twice on Dec. 18, first at the UTSA Down-

Christmas carols.

and in a protracted jam session later at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center (7-11 p.m.)

Songs and music invade local stages as

HUMOR IS PART OF THE HOLIDAYS, TOO Another Christmas tradition was started

well this time of the year. A Christmas

nine years ago by the Company Theater and

Carol, the Musical has become a new tradi-

actor/director Damien Gillen when he

120 | sawoman.com

west School of Art (Dec. 10). Jewelry, ceramics, glass, paintings and sculptures are

town Campus Buena Vista Theater (2 p.m.)

among the many unique offerings.

And Bazar Sábado at the San Antonio Museum of Art will be back with tempting gifts for yourself or others on Dec. 10.

Have fun!

ENTERTAINMENT & ARTS W

ENTERTAINMENT & THE ARTS

Comedy

Museums

Cleto’s Comedy Night Laugh Out Loud Comedy Club 11/2 Wed, 8 pm

INSTITUTE OF TEXAS CULTURES Griff Smith’s Texas

A Christmas Carol

Music Morrissey with special guest Kristeen Young Majestic Theatre 11/ 14 Mon, 7:30 pm Robert Earl Keen Majestic Theatre 12/18 Sun, 7 pm Joe Bonamass AT&T Center 12/3 Sat, 8 pm Trans-Siberian Orchestra: Two Showings AT&T Center 12/22 Thurs, 4 pm and 8 pm San Antonio’s 17th Annual Mariachi Vargas Extravaganza Lila Cockrell Theatre 12/3-12/4 Voci di Sorelle Comfort & Joy: Music of Christmas, Chapel of the Incarnate Word 12/11 Sun, 3 pm Floore’s Country Store Dwight Yoakam 11/4 Fri, 9 pm James McMurtry 11/12 Sat, 9 pm Willie Nelson 11/16 Wed, 9 pm Granger Smith 11/18 Fri, 9 pm Reckless Kelly 12/2 Fri, 9 pm Charlie Robison 12/16 Fri, 9 pm Two Tons of Steel 12/31 Sat, 9 pm www.lifeatfloores.com The Copperleaf Quintet Copperleaf at the San Antonio Museum of Art 11/ 13 Sun, 2:30 pm San Antonio Choral Society A Feast of Carols 12/19 Mon, 7:30 pm Laurel Heights United Methodist Church Rachelle Ferrell Carver Cultural Arts Center 11/12 Sat, 8 pm The 3 Mo’ Tenors Carver Cultural Arts Center 12/3 Sat, 8 pm

SAN ANTONIO SYMPHONY SLL Salutes America Laurie Auditorium 11/4-5 Fri and Sat, 8 pm

All Star Showcase Every Monday Night River Center Comedy Club 8:30 pm

Photographic retrospective from Texas Highways Thru 3/25

Timeless Texas Toys Oxymorons Improv Troupe Every Tuesday Night River Center Comedy Club 8:30 pm ComedySportz Family Friendly Improvisation Every Saturday Creative Drama Academy www.cszsa.com

Thru 3/25

MCNAY ART MUSEUM Shakespeare to Sondheim: Designs from the Tobin collection Thru 12/18 The Nightmare Before Christmas Thru 1/1

ARTPACE

The Orient Expressed: Japan’s Influence on Western Art, 1854-1918 Thru 1/15

Rachmaninoff 2 Majestic Theatre 11/18-19 Fri and Sat, 8 pm

By Permit Only Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center Thru 11/19

Cassatt and the Orient: Japan’s Influence on Printmaking Thru 1/15

Holiday Pops Majestic Theatre 12/16-17 Fri and Sat, 8 pm

Justin Boyd Multimedia Installations Thru 11/27

Theater

Janet Cardiff and George Bures Miller Thru 12/31

Who Let The Ghosts Out? The Magik Theatre Thru 11/12 www.magiktheatre.org

BLUE STAR CONTEMPORARY ART COMPLEX

Brahms Sings Majestic Theatre 11/11-12 Fri and Sat, 8 pm

Hal Holbrook in Mark Twain Tonight!

Arts SA Laurie Auditorium at Trinity University 11/6 Sun The Kings of Salsa Arts SA Majestic Theatre 11/20 Sun The Nutcracker Ballet Performed by SA Ballet Presented by the SA Symphony Majestic Theatre 11/25-27, 12/2-4 The Nutcracker Ballet Ballet SA with the Heritage Society Majestic Theatre 11/25-12/4

Art

Chuck Ramirez — Minimally Baroque Thru 11/6 Recent Works — Featuring Rodolfo Choperena Thru 11/6 Carlos Betancourt Thru 11/6 SOUTHWEST SCHOOL OF ART Barbra Riley: Bitter Sweet Thru 11/13 Exhibition: River of No Return — Laura McPhee Thru 11/20 Shannon Brock: Solo Exhibition 11/17- 2/12 OPEN STUDIO

Fiddler on the Roof Majestic Theatre 12/6-11 www.majesticempire.com Time Stands Still San Pedro Playhouse Cellar Theater Thru 11/13 sanpedroplayhouse.com A Christmas Carol: The Musical San Pedro Playhouse Russell Hill Rogers Theater 12/2-/23 sanpedroplayhouse.com Black Nativity Carver Cultural Arts Center Jo Long Theater 12/9-11

World Aids Day 12/1 Sonya Clark: Solo Exhibition 12/8- 2/12 Marie Swartz: Constant Churning 12/8- 2/12 Art.i.copia 12/10 GUADALUPE CULTURAL ARTS CENTER Project 2: Ray Santisteban Recuerdos de Nuestros Muertos 11/2-4, 8-11, 15-29

SAN ANTONIO MUSEUM OF ART Animal Instinct: Photographs of David Lee Thru 2/19 5000 Years of Chinese Jade Thru 2/19 WITTE MUSEUM SHIPWRECK! Pirates & Treasure 10/1 – 1/8 Out of the Vault: Celebrating 85 Years of Collecting at the Witte Museum Thru 4/29 Opening the Witte Wardrobe: 85 Years of Collecting Textiles Thru 3/25

Misc.

San Antonio Botanical Garden Amazing Butterflies Interactive Exhibit Thru 1/8 Rock ‘n’ Roll SA Marathon and Half Marathon San Antonio Sports Downtown S.A 11/13 Sun Asi Baila Puerto Rico Puerto Rican Heritage Society Villita Assembly Building 11/20 Sun US Military Veterans Parade Alamo Plaza 11/12 Sat, 8 am Kristkindlmarkt Beethoven Maennerchor Garten und Halle 12/3 Sat, 10 am Neighborhood Holiday Lighting Guadalupe Street Stage 12/9 Fri, 6 - 9 pm Celebrate San Antonio S. Alamo Street between Market and Durango 12/31 Sat, 6 pm - midnight november/december 2011 |

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W FOOD & WINE TWO BROTHERS BBQ WETMORE STEAKHOUSE

12656 West Ave .

13525 Wetmore

496-0222 343-8100

American Cajun/Creole BIGA ON THE BANKS 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 THE LODGE MADRID ROOM MAGIC TIME MACHINE MAMA'S CAFE

RAINFOREST CAFÉ SCENIC LOOP CAFE SILO ELEVATED CUISINE VINEYARD

203 S. St. Mary’s 225-0722 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 1746 Lockhill-Selma 349-8466 300 E. Travis 227-4392 902 N.E. Loop 410 828-1470 100 N. Main 354-2233 2442 Nacogdoches 826-8303 490-1933 14424 N. Hwy. 281 517 N. Presa 223-3297 25615 Boerne Stage Rd. 687-1818 1133 Austin Highway 824-8686 483-8989 434 N. Loop 1604 27315 FM 3009 (830) 980-8033

Asian Hsiu Yu 8338 Broadway St San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 828-2273 BIG KAHUNAS TOKYO STEAKHOUSE CHINA BISTRO DING HOW FORMOSA GARDENS FUJIYA GOLDEN WOK 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 ORCHID THAI LAO RESTAURANT TOKYO STEAK HOUSE TONG’S THAI

MICHELINO’S MILANO RISTORANTE ACADIANA BOURBON STREET SEAFOOD PAT O’BRIEN’S

733-8473 541-8100 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 832-9889 524-9908 341-4461 829-7345

RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE

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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

691-3332 271-2888 229-1491 641-1998 698-2141 653-7839 520-5552

674-0019 545-0666 212-8698

PAESANOS

PIATTI PICCOLO’S POMPEII ITALIAN GRILL RISTORANTE LUCIANO TRE TRATTORIA

The Fig Tree 515 Villita St. San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 224-1976 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

BIG’Z BURGER JOINT BOBBY J’S BUCKHORN SALOON BUN ‘N’ BARREL 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 STONE WERKS TEXAS HAMBURGER CO

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

2303 N. Loop 1604 W. 13247 Bandera Rd. 318 E. Houston St. 1150 Austin Hwy. 2323 N. St. Marys 1900 Blanco 4200 Broadway 1006 N.E. Loop 410 9980 IH-10 W. 16609 San Pedro 621 Pat Booker 1624 E.Commerce 115 Alamo Plaza.

8602 Botts Ln. 18414 Hwy. 281 N. 17625 Blanco Rd. 13838 Jones Maltsberger.

1750 N. 1604 330 E. Grayson St.

408-2029 695-4941 247-4000 828-2829 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

7300 Jones Maltsberger 828-3508 1201 Loop 1604 @ Blanco 764-0400 9010 Huebner Rd. 699-1189

Italian

ALDINO AT THE VINEYARD ALDO'S RISTORANTE BRAVO CUCINA ITALIANA CAPPARELLI’S ON MAIN CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL CIAO LAVANDERIA DOLORES DEL RIO

6989 Blanco 200 E. Grayson, #100 8032 Fredericksburg Rd. 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 4003 Broadway 401 S. Alamo

979-6363 223-3900 692-9900 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 805-0333 223-0401

Mediterranean

Hamburgers

Barbecue

THE BARBEQUE STATION CHIT CHAT BBQ THE COUNTY LINE

1289 S.W. Loop 410 2815 N. Loop 1604 121 Alamo Plaza

European

LÜKE MESON EUROPEAN DINING WAXY O’CONNOR’S

741 W. Ashby Pl 8342 W. IH-10 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 7959 Broadway 126 W. Rector 9405 San Pedro 1146 Austin Highway

DOUGH PIZZERIA IL SOGNO OSTERIA LORENZO’S LA FOCACCIA ITALIAN GRILL LITTLE ITALY LUCE RISTORANTE E ENOTECA LUCIANO’S

1203 N. Loop 1604 W. 8539 Fredericksburg 15900 La Cantera Pkwy.

2524 N. Main 12507 IH-10 W. 226 E. Olmos 106 River Walk

340-0000 696-2536 877-9300 735-5757 694-4191 822-3990 222-9998

DEMO’S BIN 555 COOL CAFÉ COPA WINE BAR GREEK TO ME JOHN THE GREEK MIMI & DIMI’S PAPOULI’S GRILL

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

342-2772 732-7777 496-0555 877-5001 495-2672 699-6688 403-0565 674-3464 659-2244 804-1118 641-1313

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 CHAUMA GAUCHA 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 LA POSADA DEL REY 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

146 E. Houston 11703 Huebner 10060 IH-10 W. 14250 San Pedro 100 Hoefgen 20079 Stone Oak Pkwy.

713 S. Alamo 430 E. Commerce 18318 Sonterra Place 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 999 E. Basse 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

222-2362 877-0600 691-8827 495-2233 222-0561 494-0561 225-5550 225-6718 564-9400 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 828-5666 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

FOOD & WINE W

Pizza

CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN FLORIO’S PIZZA GUILLERMO’S MISS ELLIE’S SORRENTO TRILOGY PIZZA BISTRO VOLARE GOURMET PIZZA

11745 IH-10 W. 255 E. Basse Rd. 7701 Broadway 618 McCullough 903 E. Bitters Rd 5146 Broadway 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

5054 Broadway

699-4275 424-2014 805-8646 223-5587 499-1258 824-0055 404-1818 828-3354

Seafood

FISH CITY GRILL FUSION SEAFOOD, STEAK LANDRY’S SEAFOOD PAPPADEAUX SEAFOOD OSTRA ON THE RIVER WILDFISH SEAFOOD GRILLE

18130 Hwy. 281 N. 11703 Huebner Road 517 N. Presa 76 N.E. Loop 410 212 W. Crockett 1834 N.W. Loop 1604

495-3474 694-4201 527-1845 340-7143 396-5817 493-1600

Southwestern

CALIZA GRILL CANYON CAFE FRANCESCA’S AT SUNSET ORO RESTAURANT AND BAR ROARING FORK ZUNI GRILL

420 W. Market 225 E. Basse 16641 La Cantera Pkwy.

705 E. Houston 1806 N.W. Loop 1604 223 Losoya

224-6500 225-0722 558-6500 225-5100 479-9700 227-0864

Steaks

Little Rhein 231 So. Alamo St. San Antonio, TX 78205 (210) 225-2111 ANTLERS LODGE THE BARN DOOR BOLO’S ROTISSERIE GRILLE FLEMING’S STEAKHOUSE GREY MOSS INN KIRBY’S STEAKHOUSE LITTLE RHEIN STEAKHOUSE MORTON’S STEAKHOUSE MYRON’S STEAKHOUSE OUNCE STEAKHOUSE THE PALM RUTH'S CHRIS

9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. 520-4001 8400 N. New Braunfels 824-0116 9821 Colonnade 691-8888 255 E. Basse 824-9463 10901 Scenic Loop 695-8301 123 N. Loop 1604 E. 404-2221 231 S. Alamo 225-1212 849 E. Commerce 228-0700 136 N. Castell, New Braunfels (830) 624-1024 1401 N. Loop 1604 W. 493-6200 233 E. Houston 226-7256 7720 Jones Maltsberger 821-5051 1170 E. Commerce 227-8847

Enhance your listing!

Call (210) 826-5375 for more information

november/december 2011 |

123

W AROUND TOWN

FAMILY ENDEAVORS PRESENTS

DANCING WITH THE STARS 2011 GALA 1. Judges Randy Chase, Kristin Tips, Felix Solis and Chief William McManus 2. April Ancira and Philip Gutierrez won 1

the Judge's Trophy Award

4

3. The People's Choice Award Winner was Christy Prescott with her dance partner, Daniel Blaine.

WOMEN’S GLOBAL CONNECTION PRESENTS 2

10TH ANNUAL GALA

5

4. Lisa Uribe-Kozlovsky, Sr. Dorothy Ettling, Sr. Neomi Hayes, Cynthia I. Aguirre and Tere Dresner-Salinas 5. Lionel Sosa, Bridget Flood, Lorenzo Gomez, Kara Spranger and Janie Barrera 6. Sara Spears Cook and Arla Johnson

3

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6

WEDDINGS W

David Sixt

Mr. and Mrs. John William Hinchey (Christine Adelle Gonzalez) July 30, 2011

David Sixt

Paul Overstreet/Overstreet Studios

Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Kerr Friedman (Julie Anne McCaleb) August 6, 2011

David Sixt

Mr. and Mrs. Scott Miller (Stephanie Long) July 23, 2011

Mr. and Mrs. Jeffrey James Minarcik (Kara Maria Boldt) July 23, 2011

David Sixt

Mr. and Mrs. Christopher George Shannon (Lacey Elizabeth Olson) July 16, 2011

David Sixt

Mr. & Mrs. Eugene Simon Kowel (Elysia Beth Gruber) July 3, 2011

november/december 2011 |

125

W CALENDAR OF EVENTS

MCNAY ART MUSEUM PRESENTS

20 YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF DIRECTOR BILL CHIEGO

McNay Art Museum McNay Gala: The Orient Expressed: Japan’s Influence on Western Art 1845-1918 November 2 (210) 805-1761

San Antonio Zoo “Come fly with me” Zoobilation Ball November 10 San Antonio Zoo (210) 734-7184

SAY Sí

San Antonio Children’s Museum Gingerbread Design Challenge November 12 Pearl Studio (210) 212-4453

5th Annual Día De Los Muertos Festival Muertitos Fest 2011 November 3 SAY Sí Central (210) 212-8666

Colleen Kelly, Toby Calvert and Betty Halff

Sandra and Mark Randol

William and Caroline Carrington

Rose Glennon, Jane Stieren Lacey, Bill Lacey and Rebecca Dankert

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Boys and Girls Clubs of San Antonio 15th Annual Casino Night November 3 Rosenberg Sky Room (210) 436-0686

Roy Maas’ Youth Alternatives, Inc. “Camino de Amor” Gala Westin Riverwalk Hotel November 12 (210) 340-8077

Kinetic Kids Hootenanny November 3 Pearl Stable (210) 748-5860

Salvation Army Doll and Bear Show November 14 Oak Hills Country Club (210) 352-2000

The MISS Foundation Kindness Walk November 6 Woodlawn Lake Park (210) 859-8905

Bexar County Medical Society Women in Medicine Holiday Shopping Boutique and Dinner November 15 San Antonio Country Club (210) 301-4366

Kappa Kappa Gamma 15th Annual Tablescapes November 7-8 San Antonio Country Club (210) 826-6411

Chi Omega Alumnae 4th Annual Wish Lunch Benefiting Make- A-Wish Foundation November 16 San Antonio Country Club (210) 455-9111

Alpha Home 6th Annual Fundraising Luncheon November 8 University of the Incarnate Word (210) 735-3822

Blue Star Contemporary Art Center Arts and Eats 2011 Benefiting its exhibitions, art education and programs November 16 (210) 227-6960

Southwest Foundation Forum Lecture Luncheon: The Bold Future of Biomedical Research November 9 The Argyle (210) 396-6615

Opera Guild of San Antonio 16th Annual Fall Festival of Music Romance is in the Air Luncheon November 17 San Antonio Country Club (210) 696-3644

Transplants for Children 5th Annual Gayla’s Gala November 10 Leon Springs Dance Hall (210) 949-1212

Family Services Association Festival of Lights Rosenberg Sky Room November 17 (210) 299-2400

CALENDAR OF EVENTS W

UT HEALTH SCIENCE CENTER PRESENTS

2011 PRESIDENT'S GALA Respite Care of San Antonio 24th Anniversary Luncheon November 18 Pearl Stable (210) 737-1212

Inspire Fine Art Center San Antonio Art League Gala Benefit December 3 Inspire Fine Art Center (210) 829-5592

National Ovarian Cancer Coalition Run/Walk to Break The Silence on Ovarian Cancer November 19 Brackenridge Park (210) 219-1837

Sembradores of SA Education Foundation Posada Gala 2011 December 3 Omni Colonnade (210) 494-3945

American Sunrise 9th Annual Gala November 19 Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center (210) 296-8577

McNay Art Museum Holiday Brunch December 4 McNay Museum (210) 805-1761

Inspire Fine Art Center Silent Auction Benefiting the Tobin Hill Art Alliance November 21 Inspire Fine Art Center (210) 829-5592

Mission Road Ministries 32nd Annual Grand Western Shindig December 6 Cowboy’s Dance Hall (210) 334-2455

San Antonio Food Bank The Great Turkey Challenge November 24 H.E.B. Arsenal (210) 431-8312

San Antonio Museum of Art Bazar Sábado December 10 San Antonio Museum of Art (210) 978-8100

The Women’s Club Christmas in the Mansion November 29-December 2 (210) 732-4811

Friends of Hospice 2011 Poinsettia Ball Benefiting CHRISTUS VNA Hospice December 13 The Westin La Cantera Resort (210) 785-5850

Cystic Fibrosis Lone Star Chapter 65 Roses Gala December 2 Westin Riverwalk Hotel (210) 829-7267

Rotary Club of San Antonio All-American Awards Dinner January 6 Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center (210) 222-8242 x11

Carolyn and Joe Labatt, Marilyn and William Moll, Dr. Barbara Turner and Dr. Francisco González-Scarano

Dr. Gladys Keene, Dr. Paula Shireman, and Dr. Susan Mooberry

Suzanne Wade, Winell Herron, Elise Boyan and Dr. Ruth Berggren

Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center Hecho a Mano December 2-4 Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center (210) 271-3151

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo Cowgirls Live Forever Style Show and Luncheon January 19 Pearl Stable (210) 225-5851

Mission Trail Rotary Mission to Mission Charity Bike Tour and Walk December 3 Mission County Park #1 (210) 271-7000

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo The Let’s Rodeo Ball January 21 Harry Freeman Coliseum (210) 225-5851 Josue “Joe” and Patty Robles and Barbara Gentry

november/december 2011 |

127

W WOMEN ON THE MOVE

WOMEN ON THE MOVE

Rosemary Elizalde

Pamela W. Galindo

Kara Lemley

Stefanie Patterson

Möbius Partners announces Rosemary Elizalde has joined the company as chief financial officer. She will be responsible for analyzing the company’s performance, enhancing its financial infrastructure, reviewing benefits, overseeing the customer relationship management program and negotiating contracts with business partners.

Previously, Elizalde was with USAA Federal Savings Bank, serving as senior vice president/senior financial officer.

Pamela W. Galindo has joined the physical therapy department at the Non-Surgical Center of Texas.

Galindo has over 25 years’ experience in the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic patients. She received her B.S. in physical therapy from the University of Texas Health Science Center at Dallas-Southwestern and graduated magna cum laude with a B.S. in psychology from Abilene Christian University.

Palser Chiropractic and Massage Therapy is pleased to announce that licensed massage therapist Kara Lemley is now officing at Palser Chiropractic. She is a graduate of the nationally recognized LautersteinConway Massage School. With over 10 years of technical experience, Lemley specializes in deep tissue, sports massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy and Swedish massage, and she has training in neuromuscular therapy.

RE/MAX North-San Antonio has announced the addition of Stefanie Patterson to its team at 1604 and Bandera Road. Patterson has been ranked in the top 10 agents companywide and has been twice named Platinum Top 50 REALTOR®. A graduate of the elite Texas REALTORS® Leadership Program, she holds numerous professional designations, including ABR, CRS, GRI, AHS, ALHS, SRES and several others.

Annette Pico Sapient Financial Group announces the addition of Annette Pico to its staff. She will be located in the San Antonio office of the Sapient Financial Group, a general agency of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (MassMutual). Pico graduated from the University of Texas Pan American in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in finance and received the UTPA Leadership 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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Bonnie Wilson RE/MAX North-San Antonio congratulates Bonnie Wilson on her Certified Real Estate Instructor (CREI) designation.

The Texas Real Estate Teachers Association honored her as a recipient of this distinction. Additionally, she has been a Texas Real Estate Commission real estate pre-licensing instructor with the Real Estate School at the San Antonio Board of REALTORS and is currently an instructor with Champions School of Real Estate.

ASTROFORECAST W

SCORPIO October 23-November 22 It is time for you to plan, concentrate and accrue your financial nest egg.

You are tempted to overly assert your leadership in career matters; impetuous actions on your part undermine your ultimate success. Any partner’s outlandish and excessive behaviors instigate bitter repercussions. Keep the pace up in regards to your natural incisiveness when matters of information are required. Trust your inner instincts with workplace matters and relations

SAGITTARIUS November 23-December 20 Have you truly learned the value of being economical and thrifty? Personal budgets do matter, especially when the income is less than your expenditures.

Reward yourself only when the budget allows it. You have been known to be blunt and honest in the past; watch out for jumping to conclusions and inadvertently putting your foot in your mouth during the last months of this current year. You may experience withering criticism on the business front.

By LANCE K. RODRÍGUEZ

TAURUS April 21-May 20 Be cautious about credits/debits/loans at this time, as the small writing in contracts that are dismissed may come back to haunt you. Elective surgery procedures may experience a Murphy’s Law syndrome. If you harbor or have been concealing resentments, regrets and remorse about a relationship, inadvertent slippages of the tongue immerse you in hot water. There could be plenty of backpedaling with this issue. Time heals all wounds eventually.

LEO July 23-August 22 Children may be perplexing as mixed signals are sent with ensuing misunderstandings, misperceptions and misrepresentations. There is an edginess on your part about acknowledging personal freedoms and liberties. Do you rule with a heavy hand or a loving heart? Exercise definitely clears away mental cobwebs that cloud your values.

Cooperation is a lesson involving maturity and responsibility; are you truly ready to take the first step?

CAPRICORN December 21-January 19 People are looking to you as a source of expertise, wisdom and finesse on so many different subject matters. You are the motivational cheerleader who uplifts and inspires others and, more importantly, launches initiatives that will attract beneficial outcomes.

Recognize that you may be the holiday gift in disguise.

Do watch out for unexpected surprises from the home or family front. Dreams are active, so pay attention to the clues they offer.

PISCES February 19-March 20 You know deep within you changes are about to occur that will be unprecedented.

These last months of 2011 are preliminary harbingers of what will begin to take place starting with February of 2012. Dissolve that which is false in your life, and believe in your ability to build healthy ego structures that are truly self-supportive.

You are in a position to educate yourself beyond your wildest dreams. Know that truth exists.

GEMINI May 21-June 21 There is a fine line between that which is ethical and principled and that which is fair and just. Walk in someone else’s moccasins before pontificating and espousing narrow viewpoints. All this stress can take a toll on the body as you become susceptible to colds, viruses and general malaise.

Above all, learn to meditate to allay any nervous anxieties about emotional upsets. The end of the year is really meant for you to celebrate life and its essence of joy!

VIRGO August 23-September 22 Family relations are due a make-over. Clear out the past and realize the present and the near future are coming at you with or without the past. You are definitely in a position to play a strong leadership role, and you may even experience the maverick in you emerging to the delight of bystanders.

Set aside outmoded viewpoints and take up the-glass-is-halffull philosophy. Your future aspirations are in sight; keep your opportunity radar on!

AQUARIUS January 20-February 18 A dear friend of yours makes wonderful announcements and hard-to-believe proposals.

Do a quick fact check before jumping in headfirst. You may even have to play an adversarial role to shake out the bugs.

Please also value yourself first since you traditionally support friends wholeheartedly. Loyalty is one thing; common sense is immeasurable. You may flush out someone who has been keeping a secret from you; watch your anger about this.

ARIES March 21-April 20 Strive for work skill mastery and dive into your ability to acquire and execute fine details to your benefit. Now is the time to have a can-do attitude about health regimens, whether through diet or exercise. If you point out the big blunders other people make, they retaliate with negative judgments and opinions as if a swarm of bees were attacking. One bee may not hurt as much as a swarm. Listen to the wise and frank counsel a dear friend shares with you.

CANCER June 22-July 22 Criticism from a family member may put a dent in your holiday planning. Is this criticism more important than the actual holidays? Take it in stride, as this family member is angry about something totally unrelated to you; you just happened to be there and took the brunt of the anger. The spirit of the holidays is more important than the anger. A realization of what your financial priorities are stuns you; when this occurs, pleasant surprises happen.

LIBRA September 23-October 22 Be alert to what’s happening in the neighborhood, as double takes happen when outrageous claims or disturbances occur. Someone may actually want to prey on your sympathies to instigate hidden agendas that demoralize you and damage someone’s reputation. Display restraint and maturity as you will come up smelling like a rose. A friend may introduce you to the romance of your life. This is a total surprise to you; be sure to thank your friend.

Lance K. Rodríguez is a professional Astrology/Tarot Consultant as well as a Usui/Karuna® Reiki Master. He can be reached at AstroLance.net.

november/december 2011 |

129

W LOOKING BACK

UTSA Libraries Special Collection — Zintgraff Colection

1960 Charline McCombs with her three daughters at the new car show at Villita Assembly Hall.

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