San Antonio Woman magazine September/October 2014

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FRANCHISE

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The Latest on Breast Cancer

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March March of of Dimes: Dimes: Improving Improving Babies’ Babies’ Health Health

SHERIFF

SUSAN

PAMERLEAU Guiding the Sheriff’s Office into the 21st Century

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CONTENTS

16

56

26

SAN ANTONIO WOMAN • SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014

FEATURES

COLUMNS

16 UP FRONT

10

Editor’s Letter

It’s good to be the boss - three women linked to successful franchises.

12

Contributors

22 PROFILE

14

What’s New

SPECIAL SECTIONS 67

99

Bexar County Sherrif Susan Pamerleau

39 Beauty

26 SA AT HOME Lofty contemporary in Alamo Heights

52 Wine

46 HEALTH What you need to know about breast cancer

54 Business Woman Spotlight

56 WOMEN IN BUSINESS

91

Mommy Matters

BIOBRIDGE GLOBAL

MARCH OF DIMES

Four women taking care of the elderly

98 According to Linda

84 TEXAS HILL COUNTRY Old meets new in Fredericksburg, Texas

115 Mentoring

88 GUYS TO KNOW

122 Restaurants

Fiesta’s own Mike Melleke

125 Weddings

94 HIGHER EDUCATION Tips for picking a college

129 Women on the Move

116 ROLE MODEL

130 Looking Back

118 ARTBEAT

Bexar County Sheriff

CALENDARS

Photography Josh Huskin

34

www.sawoman.com

Courtney Barker, Ballet San Antonio

120 DINING Starfish in Southtown

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COVER Susan Pamerleau

Helee Bernard prepares for a career making movies

Fashion

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A LETTER FROM THE EDITOR SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2014 Trailblazing women are no longer the novelty they once were, but we still admire those who lead by example. Take our Profile subject in this issue — Sheriff Susan Pamerleau, who has brought outstanding leadership and management skills to the Bexar County Sheriff’s office. She firmly believes that women have an important role to play in the Liz Garza Williams

law enforcement community.

And our Up Front story introduces three women who left their steady jobs behind to enter the entrepreneurial world of franchises. Today, they’re working harder but are happy they fol-

PUBLISHER J. Michael Gaffney EDITOR Beverly Purcell-Guerra GRAPHIC DESIGN Tamara Hooks, Maria Jenicek SENIOR WRITER Jasmina Wellinghoff CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Paula Allen, Robyn Barnes, Ron Bechtol, Denise Easdon, Linda Elliott, Anne Moore, Bonny Osterhage, Janis Turk

lowed their dreams. Read about Diane Sinclair of

Great Clips, Charlotte Immenschuh of Kumon Learning Center and Lisa Fullerton of Auntie

COPY EDITOR Kathryn Cocke

Anne’s and Cinnabon.

Two more women who are finding satisfaction in their fields are our Role Model, Halee Bernard, who is getting an early start on her chosen career as a film producer, and Artbeat subject Courtney Barker, president and executive director of Ballet San Antonio. This fall she is seeing the ballet take its place as a resident company in the newly open Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.

Meet four women who earn gratification from their caring professional services for seniors

PHOTOGRAPHY Casey Howell, Josh Huskin, Al Rendon, Janet Rogers BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT & MARKETING Steven Cox Jen Earhart Cindy Jennings Madeleine Justice

and their families in Women in Business: Helen Trowsdale of AA Care Services, Dr. Sarah Dirks of Geriatric Dental Group, Mandy Williams of Wedgwood Senior Apartments and Dr. Phallon Doss of Doss Audiology and Hearing Center.

This issue’s Guy to Know is John Melleky, who built a career in event planning, fundraising and organizational management and is now CEO of the Fiesta San Antonio Commission. He

ADMINISTRATION & CUSTOMER SERVICE Nancy A. Gaffney PRINTING Shweiki Media, San Antonio, Texas

confesses to having attended 104 of the 108 Fiesta events this year.

At Home will take you on a tour of an Alamo Heights home that went from dated ranch style to sleek contemporary, and all under the direction of the homeowners’ son-in-law, arFor advertising information in

chitect Tobin Smith.

Starfish in Southtown is winning plaudits for its imaginative menu; read about it in Dining.

Wine tells you about the many varieties of wine bottles — colors, sizes, shapes — and the

San Antonio Woman call (210) 826-5375 email: info@sawoman.com

history of these fascinating vessels.

One of San Antonians’ favorite Hill Country stops is Fredericksburg, which offers several new stops and stores for visitors. Use our article to plan a day trip or a lazy weekend.

What’s Relevant author Linda Elliott shares her thoughts about living minimally, and two

Published by

young entrepreneurs are awarded for their innovative Cookie Cab. Once again, Mommy Matters offers helpful insight on dealing with children, this time when bad words are involved. You’ll also want to read about the latest in breast cancer knowledge

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

(October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month) and minimally invasive skin treatments for a younger appearance.

Be sure to read our special sections on the March of Dimes and BioBridge Global, encompassing the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, Qualtex Laboratories, GenCure Cellular Therapy Center and the Blood & Tissue Center Foundation. The work done by these entities is truly impressive.

Visit our website, www.sawoman.com, and stay in touch through Facebook and Twitter.

BEVERLY PURCELL-GUERRA , EDITOR

10 | sawoman.com

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.

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CONTRIBUTORS

Josh Huskin is an editorial, commercial, music and portrait photographer.

“Every other month I get to photograph San Antonio women for the cover of SAN ANTONIO WOMAN,” he says.

“It’s always a privilege and a good time meeting these women. I love getting to connect with my subjects and make them feel at ease in front of the camera.”

His work has been published nationally and featured on 50-plus covers of regional magazines. This West Texan is a proud member of the Alamo Beard Club and enjoys kicking back with a cold Texas beer and watching his favorite team, the San Antonio Spurs.

As the mother of 12- and 10-year-old boys, contributing writer Bonny Osterhage has no problem finding topics for her “Mommy Matters” column. “There is never a dull moment,” she laughs. Bonny has been working as a feature writer and lifestyle editor in the San Antonio market for more than 14 years. Her work has been published in several local magazines and newspapers, as well as national publications and websites. Originally from Tennessee, Bonny and her husband, KSAT 12 meteorologist Mike Osterhage, have called San Antonio home for 19 years.

When she isn't chauffeuring children or working on her next assignment, Bonny can be found exercising at her neighborhood gym or curled up in her favorite chair with a good book.

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WHAT’S NEW

ˆ Nocturne Ballet Plans Fete

“Pink Tour” at select retailers, donating a por-

awards are considered the most prestigious

Ballet San Antonio will celebrate its

tion of the proceeds to The Breast Cancer

recognition program for creative teens in

opening season at the Tobin Center for the

Charities of America, which exists to eliminate

the United States.

ˆ Nocturne, a DracPerforming Arts with Fete

breast cancer as a life-threatening disease.

ula-themed gala with dinner and dancing on Oct. 11 at Club Giraud.

The critically acclaimed Dracula ballet will be performed Oct. 16-19, marking Ballet

Dyan Green, 3D art and art history

“Go Pink” with SAS and BCCA. Visit

teacher, received a medal of recognition in

www.SAShoes.com and www.thebreast-

art education for the second time in three

cancercharities.org for more information, or

years. To learn more about the school’s fine

call 1-877-782-7463.

arts program, call (210) 483-9234.

San Antonio’s debut as the Tobin’s resident ballet company. For tickets and more information, go to balletsanantonio.org.

Dr. Ortegon Moves to New Office

Voca People Coming to Boerne

Delio Ortegon, M.D., has moved to new offices at 11130 Christus Hills, Suite 108.

Board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Ortegon is chief of plastic surgery at Christus

Voca

Santa Rosa Medical Center and associate clin-

Peo-

ple, an ensem-

ical professor in plastic surgery at UTHSCSA.

ble combining a

To learn more, call (210) 614-4320 or

cappella and beat box vocals to reproduce

visit www.sanantoniocosmeticsurgery.net.

the sounds of an entire orchestra, will perform Oct. 23 at 7:30 p.m. at Boerne Cham-

SAS Premieres Pink Sneaker San Antonio Shoemakers is partnering with a national nonprofit organization for

Saint Mary’s Hall Student and Teacher Win Awards

pion Auditorium.

The eight “vocal acrobats” have dazzled

Saint Mary’s Hall student Lorena Mar-

audiences in over 25 countries around the

Breast Cancer Awareness Month to offer a

tinez accepted a national gold medal for the

globe. Go to www.voca-people.com for a

limited-edition women’s walking shoe. During

Scholastic Art and Writing competition in

sneak preview, and visit www.BoernePer-

October SAS will sell the specially designed

New York City this summer. The Scholastic

formingArts.com for tickets.

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By BONNY OSTERHAGE

UP FRONT

Photography by CASEY HOWELL

IT’S GOOD TO BE THE

BOSS

Three women find success owning franchised businesses Many women fantasize about leaving the world of 9-to-5 and becoming their own boss. Dreaming and doing are two vastly different things, however, and leaving an established career with a steady income to start from scratch can be scary. The following women bit the bullet and followed their dreams by purchasing and developing franchises in the San Antonio market. Their risks paid off, and they in turn give back to the community through a variety of charitable endeavors. It’s a win-win for these successful franchise owners, their customers and the community they serve.

1999,

Clips in order to maintain that level of consistency, and all new stylists

Diane Sinclair

Diane Sinclair

In

are nurtured and partnered with seasoned stylists before they are al-

GREAT CLIPS

opened

the

lowed on the floor. They are educated in the Great Clips method of

doors on her

customer service, which places the emphasis on the client — not the

first

Great

stylist. An online check-in option and mobile app reduces any wait

Clips

salon

time, and consultations are an integral part of the experience.

franchise in Seguin. Today, the stylish, savvy

“We want to do what YOU want,” stresses Diane. “We will consult

businesswoman is in the process of opening

and communicate with you to make sure that you get the cut and

her 19th location of this select service family salon. It’s a big depar-

style you ask for. People want to feel good about themselves, and

ture from her days as a full-time environmental lawyer with the

we want to help with that.”

Valero Corporation (she still serves as an independent attorney for

Diane’s desire to help people look and feel better extends far be-

the company), but it’s one that has allowed her to fulfill her goals of

yond the stylist’s chair. She has leveraged her franchises to immerse

doing more within the community.

herself in philanthropic efforts designed to spread that “feel good”

If you’ve ever set foot in a Great Clips, one of the first things you

vibe. Through her corporate connections, Diane became involved

will notice is the absence of “attitude.” This is not the place you go

with Haven for Hope and began lobbying for the organization to add

for a $200 haircut and highlights. It is the place to go, however, if you

a salon to their services. “I thought it would be the icing on the cake

are looking for a quality cut from a highly trained and educated styl-

to what they do,” she says happily.

ist at an affordable price.

“We are not pretentious,” says Diane, who credits the salon for

To show her commitment, Diane and Great Clips donated all the necessary equipment to make the salon functional. Once a month,

her own chic “do.” “We are a great value, and we are family friendly.

the Haven Hair Care Salon is staffed with at least five Great Clips styl-

We want families to be comfortable, and pricing is a big part of that.”

ists who work tirelessly from 2 until 7 p.m., cutting and styling any-

Diane first discovered Great Clips in her home of California. After

where from 90 to 110 adults and children in need. Her staff also

applying her corporate legal skills to extensively researching the

serviced the residents of Prospects Courtyard, a designated area of

company, she was impressed with what she calls their “recipe for

Haven for Hope that offers the homeless a safe place to sleep.

success,” as well as their support team — an important factor in a franchise business. “The company stresses consistency among the franchises, from the customer service to the cuts to the look of the salons,” she explains.

Stylists are hired and trained on a five-step system specific to Great

16 | sawoman.com

“I believe in partnering being active participants within “I believe in partnering andand being active participants within thethe community,” Diane, adding that it is sheshe community,”explains explains Diane, adding that it ais philosophy a philosophy learned from herher corporate days.

“Valero is aisgreat role model in in learned from corporate days.

“Valero a great role model community service.” community service.”

september/october 2014 | 17

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UP FRONT

In addition to the work she does through Great Clips, Diane is per-

Eventually, Lisa went to work as the CFO for Anne’s daughters,

sonally involved with Dress for Success, an organization that aims to

who owned five stores in the Austin area. She went through the

turn disadvantaged women into empowered professionals. Diane cur-

process to own a franchise, and when the opportunity to open her

rently serves as the chair of sponsors for that organization’s annual

flagship store in North Star Mall presented itself, Lisa jumped at the

fundraiser, A Taste of Success Casino Night, taking place Oct. 24.

“I believe in the idea of helping people get back on their feet,” says Diane. “We are a part of this community, and this is a small way that we can help people transition back into society.”

chance. “I had my 9- and 12-year-old children working behind the counter in those early days,” she recalls.

Today, Lisa’s son is working in the accounting department of the business while attending college, and Lisa’s sister serves as the mar-

When she isn’t making San Antonio and its residents more beau-

keting director. As for Lisa, although she had a hand in all aspects

tiful, Diane and her husband/business partner enjoy spending their

of the business for the first three years, she has since grown the ad-

time traveling or playing a round of 18 holes. And while owning and

ministrative side to a point where she can delegate and focus on

operating 19 franchises is a busy job, it is something that Diane says

other aspects of the business besides simply operations. Namely,

she would happily do all over again. Her advice to anyone consider-

on philanthropy.

ing biting off a piece of a franchise?

“Make sure the business is sustainable in a normal economy, and

“Anne’s motto is ‘you give to get to give again,’ and that’s one of the main reasons we aligned ourselves with her business,” explains

not just a passing fad,” she cautions. “Know your business model, stick

Lisa. Last year, she was able to contribute a total of $10,000 from do-

with it, and adhere to your core values, and the rest will fall into place.”

nations collected at all five locations to Alex’s Lemonade Stand, a charity that raises money for the treat-

Lisa Fullerton

ment of childhood

AUNTIE ANNE’S AND CINNABON

cancers.

Through

Operation Gratitude, her airport Cinnabon location

puts

to-

Blood, sweat, tears and a

gether goodie bags

lot of dough went into Lisa

for deployed military

Fullerton’s dream of open-

personnel and also

ing her own Auntie Anne’s

provides free prod-

franchise in 2000. She quit

ucts to the military

her high-paying corporate

traveling home for

job in Austin, pulled her kids

the holidays.

out of school, sold her home

Closer to home,

and moved to San Antonio,

Lisa

a city where she knew no

board member of

one. Her decision had many

Clubhouse San An-

people shaking their heads

tonio and remains

in disbelief.

active in this organi-

is

a

former

zation that serves in“People said I was crazy to leave the corporate world, relocate, wear a ball cap and work in a shopping mall,” she laughs.

dividuals with mental health issues, often employing them as

But that’s just what this determined businesswoman did, and

vates Lisa, and that includes her employees, two of whom have

samplers through a transitional employment program.

Making life a little better for people is a big part of what moti-

today she is serving up delicious Auntie Anne’s pretzel treats at five different locations, including the San Antonio Airport, where she also owns a Cinnabon store. “The average life cycle is a little more than eight years for a food franchise, and we are going on 14 years,” says Lisa proudly.

been with her for more than 12 years.

“I like to try to develop and grow people from within the company,” she says.

Benefits including a health insurance plan, a 401K, profit-sharing and a manager-in-training program all offer incentives to employees

So how does the managing director for an international behav-

to work hard and climb up the corporate ladder. “We want to em-

ioral science firm in Austin become a success story in suburban

power our employees to get to the next level by showing them that

shopping malls? It all started when her neighbor in Round Rock

hard work can be rewarded,” she explains. “My goal is to be known

tried her hand at pretzel making. “My neighbor was Anne Beiler,

for treating our employees with dignity, making them feel respected

who went on to become Auntie Anne,” laughs Lisa. “She used to

and helping them live a good life by offering these opportunities for

cut and perm my hair, and she served me the lemonade that I still

their advancement.”

serve in the stores today.”

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Lisa herself is a prime example of how rewarding hard work can

september/october 2014 | 19

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UP FRONT

be. Whether it’s for the delicious flavored pretzels, pretzel bites, pret-

her staff. “These kids become a part of our lives,” she says happily.

zel dogs or mouthwatering lemonade, there is usually a line at an

“We go to their birthday parties, graduations and other events.”

Auntie Anne’s location.

Because education is such a part of her own life, Charlotte is al-

“It chokes me up to see people willing to wait for our food,” she

ways ready to do what she can through Kumon to foster a love of

says humbly. “I still love to see people’s faces when they take that

learning in the community,. She provides supplemental materials to

first bite.”

schools in need, as well as charitable organizations like Camp PJ,

Charlotte Immenschuh KUMON LEARNING CENTER

Former

high

school

teacher Charlotte Immenschuh spent her early days as a franchise owner working 70 to 80 hours a week with a crib in her office to accommodate her newborn. Now this mother of five has the largest Kumon franchise in San Antonio with more than 500 students.

“I wanted to reach more kids,” says Charlotte, who taught for one and half years in the public school system prior to opening Kumon. “It was humbling

“These kids become a part of our lives,” she says happily. “We go to their birthday parties, graduations and other events.”

and eye-opening,” she says. “It doesn’t matter what district you are in, the problems in the education system are universal.”

Charlotte saw those problems firsthand not just as an educator,

where she created summer backpacks filled with school supplies for the children served by that organization.

but also as a parent. One of her daughters struggled in school, and

Last year, as part of a Leadership SAISD group project, Charlotte

after doing some research, Charlotte enrolled her in Kumon and

helped secure the joining of the YMCA with a couple of local middle

watched as her little girl began to blossom. “It transformed her,” says

schools to provide them with a Youth in Government program.

Charlotte of the experience. “She went from being scared and dis-

“Kumon will stay on to get it up and running,” she says.

couraged to being a child with a passion for learning. She’s actually pursuing her own teaching degree now.”

Between her own children, two of whom have special needs, and the children of Kumon, Charlotte has to do quite a bit of juggling to

Charlotte, who has a degree in business marketing and comes

keep both her business and her home running smoothly. A passion-

from a family of entrepreneurs, was so impressed that she began the

ate cook, she prepares meals in advance so that her family can enjoy

almost year-long process of opening her own franchise of the Japan-

a sit-down dinner together in spite of the hectic after-school hours

ese-based business. “I wanted more flexibility, and Kumon allowed

when Kumon is the busiest.

me to combine my business, marketing and education experience,” she explains.

Considered “supplemental education” as opposed to “tutoring,” the philosophy and goal of Kumon is to create peace and harmony

“It’s very important to me that we sit down as a family for dinner,” she says. “Plus going to the grocery store relaxes me. It’s a great escape.” Other forms of “escape” for Charlotte include hunting, traveling and reading extensively.

through education. Charlotte explains that it is based on a time-

But at the end of the day, it is learning and sharing her love of

tested and proven structured linear progression that is more than 50

learning that is her passion. “The biggest reward for me is seeing a

years old. Not just for struggling kids, it teaches organization and

child realize his or her untapped potential,” she says happily. “Can’t

time management skills so that children can become independent

is not allowed here.”

learners. “It is all about quality instruction and education,” she says.

“It doesn’t follow trends.”

“Can’t” is also not a part of Charlotte’s own vocabulary. Her goals include working more with children who are at risk or who have dis-

Although there is a set curriculum, each child is individually

abilities, and she aspires to write a children’s book series. “I wasn’t

tested and receives a personalized plan based on his or her own

afraid to open a business in my 20s,” says the enthusiastic entrepre-

needs. They also receive a lot of love and support from Charlotte and

neur. “I can’t wait to see what the next 20 years have in store.”

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september/october 2014 | 21

WOMAN ON A

MISSION Sheriff Susan Pamerleau guides Sheriff’s Office into the 21st century

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF Senior Writer

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Photography by JOSH HUSKIN

PROFILE

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On July 17, the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office held a job fair to attract more women into the law enforcement profession. At the morning gathering at the Region 20 Educational Services Center, where the event was held throughout the day, some 65 potential job applicants collected informational material, listened to speeches and filled out forms, while friendly deputies mingled with them, trying to be helpful. When Sheriff Susan Pamerleau addressed the crowd, she explained that she and her colleagues would talk “about the profession of corrections. It’s not just a job, it’s a career.”

She went on to tell them that one of the first things she did upon assuming office was to conduct a nationwide search for a “certified correctional executive” to oversee the Bexar County Adult Detention Center and that 28 other officers had since undergone advanced professional development, earning certifications as professional correctional officers from the American Correctional Association. By 2016, she would like to see the county jail become the first such facility in Texas to be accredited by the Association, whose standards are higher than those required by the State of Texas. Then she explained the statistics and the present needs of her office, both in terms of quality employees and women officers.

When we meet for our first interview the next day, Pamerleau reiterates why more women are needed. “One reason is that we need to have a diverse workforce to mirror the community we serve,” she says. “The other reason is that we have women inmates, and some parts of the job can be done only by women, such as in the housing units, for example. So, it’s important to have enough women to cover those units. But we don’t want to restrict women to just those jobs. We would like to see women move into other jobs — administration, booking, classification and others.”

In addition, more women are being incarcerated. Between 1985 and 2007, the number has grown 404 percent nationwide, compared to 209 percent for men. While the local jail averaged 450 to 550 female inmates in the past, today that number has grown to 650-700. That represents 17 percent of the jail population. “As you can see, we have opportunities for women in correction,” notes the sheriff.

Before Pamerleau came into office, the press repeatedly re-

Pamerleau, who had two successful careers before running for sheriff — a military and a corporate one — had no interest in seeking public office until her friend and former state senator

ported problems with understaffing at the jail and the pressure

Cindy Taylor Krier, representing a group of prominent Republi-

that imposed on employees. There were, in fact, 52 vacant posi-

cans, convinced her to try. Though her first attempt to become

tions. “We knew we had to fix that,” says the sheriff. “There was

a county commissioner failed (mostly because of late entry into

a massive amount of overwork in the living units in posts that

the race), she was inspired by the fact that she came close to

are critical to the running of the jail. We identified these and

winning and by the encouragement she received. While ponder-

worked with the county manager to accelerate training and with

ing whether to run again, another local political insider sug-

the commissioners to approve funding for new positions. And

gested the sheriff’s office. “Yeah, right,” she thought, “I’ve never

we continue to hire. That’s why recruiting is so critical.”

been in law enforcement.” But after finding out more about the

september/october 2014 | 23

Sheriff Susan Pamerleau’s experience with domestic violence has made her an outspoken advocate for preventing and reducing the incidence of abuse.

“It’s an important part of how I can give back to the community.”

agency that employs 1,800 uniformed and civilian employees,

ship but soon expanded her “repertoire” to five different majors,

she realized “that the role (of sheriff) is one of being CEO of a

ultimately graduating with a degree in sociology. In 1968, at the

large and complex business. And my experience in the Air Force

height of the Vietnam War, an Air Force recruiter visited her

and at USAA had already given me the skills for that.”

sorority just after two significant legal restrictions on military

She has been putting them to good use since Jan. 1, 2013. In

women had been lifted.

addition to fixing the urgent staffing situation and improving

“Here I am in Laramie, Wyo., with a sociology degree, looking

training, the sheriff and her team are now working on moving

maybe at a job as a welfare worker for the county,” recalls the

their operation into the 21st century by using the newest tech-

sheriff. “No, I don’t think so! (Joining the military) was an oppor-

nology to streamline everything from field office communication

tunity to see the world and have new experiences. I’ve always

to records management. Unbelievably, more than half the em-

been a risk taker.”

ployees didn’t even have email accounts. Another priority is to

Ninety days after joining, she started her military career as

enhance the physical facilities beyond the Detention Center, in-

an Air Force second lieutenant, and “it took me 32 years to find

cluding building substations where they are most needed. Not

the exit,” she jokes. The bright young woman rose through the

only would these moves save money, but they will have a direct

ranks, assuming progressively wider responsibilities that even-

positive impact on public safety. To better communicate with the

tually brought her to the Pentagon and later to NATO head-

public, the agency also produced its first-ever annual report, “On

quarters in Brussels. When she entered the military, women

a Mission,” describing all aspects of its work: patrol, jail, criminal

were only 2 percent of the personnel. “Over the years all these

investigations and court services, together with the associated

new opportunities opened for women,” notes Pamerleau. “I saw

expenditures of these services.

the social change that was going on in our nation first happen in the military.”

Three successful careers

As her assignments grew more demanding and complex, she

Growing up as a minister’s daughter, Pamerleau remembers

rose to the level of major general and made her mark as the first

that music was a big part of her young life. An accomplished pi-

woman commander of the Air Force Personnel Center and the

anist, she was chosen to accompany school choirs both in junior

first woman in charge of the Air Force Reserve Officers Training

high and in high school. She started college on a voice scholar-

Corps. These and other positions have taught her that there’s a

24 | sawoman.com

PROFILE

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difference between a leader and a manager. “You manage resources, but as a leader you inspire and guide people to get the mission accomplished,” she says. Following retirement, USAA hired her as senior vice president for military affairs.

But there was a dark period, too. While her career was progressing smoothly, home life was rather rocky. Back in the ‘70s, locked in an unhappy marriage, she suffered emotional and sometimes physical abuse from her insecure, troubled husband for years.

When she finally started fearing for her life, she made plans to leave, triggering a tragic turn of events. When the two spoke on the phone after her departure, her husband, Ben, threatened to commit suicide and then proceeded to shoot himself. Pamerleau remarried a year later, but that marriage ended in divorce. Eventually, her career progressed to the point that she was outranking “almost everyone,” limiting her marriage options. Still a good-looking woman who doesn’t neglect her feminine side, the sheriff says that she remains open to marriage “if that’s God’s plan for me.”

Her experience with domestic violence has made her an outspoken advocate for preventing and reducing the incidence of abuse. “It’s an important part of how I can give back to the community,” she observes. Apprehending the abusers is the obvious thing to do, but in conjunction with other organizations, the sheriff’s office also works to educate women on how to get out of abusive situations before their children learn the same violent behavior. Most situations progress from verbal and emotional abuse to actual physical attacks. The issue is unfortunately a big one in Bexar County.

The other most common transgression is Driving Under the Influence and drugs in general. “If we could eliminate those things, law enforcement would have much less to do,” says the sheriff.

She’s having fun Curiously, Texas law doesn’t require a peace officer’s license to run for sheriff, but if the elected person doesn’t have one, he/she must get the required training afterwards. That’s what Pamerleau did by enrolling in the Alamo Area Council of Governments’ Regional Law Enforcement Academy. She is a firm supporter of the Second Amendment, which gives citizens the right to bear arms. There’s a sign on her office wall proclaiming that “The Second Amendment is my gun permit.”

Though her male predecessors in the last 30 to 40 years all came from a law enforcement background, they lacked executive expertise, she states. That’s why she is now on a mission to retool the culture, policies and operations of the sheriff’s office so that they can provide for better public safety as well as be able to sustain themselves in the future, regardless of the person at the helm.

But four years may not be enough to fulfill this mission. Will she run again in 2016? “Yes,” comes the quick answer. “I will run for sheriff for as long as I am having fun. And I have fun every day.”

september/october 2014 | 25

The back of Suzanne and Rick Cavender's home overlooks the swimming pool. Their sonin-law, architect Tobin Smith, engineered the makeover of a ranch-style house into the sleek modern dwelling the Cavenders enjoy today.

26 | sawoman.com

SA AT HOME

By ROBYN BARNES Photography by AL RENDON

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Lofty

CONTEMPORARY IN ALAMO HEIGHTS

‘50s ranch house gets new look Suzanne Cavender frequently found herself walking her dogs

he adds. “But I had to see it. The house lacked curb appeal. But

on LaJara Boulevard, wondering if it was time to move from the

it had good bones and was on a through lot, on a slope, so

Lincoln Heights home she shared with husband Rick. They’d

when you entered, you were on the second floor with a won-

raised their daughters there, built a good life, but the interior

derful view of trees out the back. It also caught a good south-

designer in her was restless.

eastern breeze.

“It was like reaching the third act in a play,” she says. “Rick and

“I told Suzanne this was it,” he says. ”She told me I was crazy!”

I had moved from a small home to a bigger one to raise the girls. They moved to college, and we’d talked about building an ‘empty nester’ home. I felt like if I didn’t move right then, I’d

“We brought Rick to see this house, and he laughed,” Suzanne

never leave that house.”

says. “Tobin told him what could be done, and he said, ‘Whatever you guys say. I trust you.’” Two years later, they moved in.

The Lincoln Heights house sold quickly, much to the couple’s surprise. They made a fast move to a condo rental nearby.

Strength in details “One of Tobin’s great strengths lies in controlling the details,”

“They sold that house before they had a plan for their next

Suzanne says. “Before we ever swung a hammer here, he made

move,” laughs Tobin Smith, Suzanne and Rick’s son-in-law.

sure we told him everything we wanted in the house. We love

Tobin is a licensed architect and partner in Dado Group, a San

to entertain, so the house had to have a good flow. Music is im-

Antonio-based firm offering single-sourced architectural design

portant to Rick — he’s the head of the Rick Cavender Band —

and construction services. “We looked for the right house for

so Tobin suggested we wire the entire home, inside and out, for

months while they lived in that condo,” he adds. The search led

music. Rick needed a music room to practice in, and I wanted

them to an old ranch-style house that had seen better days.

an art studio, as well as an office. We wanted space for outdoor entertaining, and Rick wanted a pool. We needed a kitchen that

“I got there three minutes late for our viewing appointment, and

would be easy for me to use whether I was making a family

Suzanne was already walking out and told me to stay in my car,”

meal or using a caterer for a party.

september/october 2014 | 27

Above, two views of the polished travertine fireplace as seen from the entry space and the living room.Below, the living room with its expansive windows. Opposite, a living room nook that serves as the homeowner's study.

28 | sawoman.com

SA AT HOME

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“We talked about materials, colors, tex-

Suzanne and Rick can relax and enjoy the

Casual dining

tures — no detail was too small,” she con-

modern fireplace. The view through the

Across the room is the dining area. The

tinues. “By the time we were finished with

fireplace connects the entry space to the

simple table is from Nest Modern by Bon-

discussions, Tobin had a strong vision of

living room and the treescape on the hori-

tempi. It’s made of reverse painted glass

what this house would become.”

zon. The room’s facing walls display two

on a stainless steel pedestal. Banquette

commissioned charcoal pieces by Suzy

seating and primitive dining chairs seat

Davidoff of El Paso.

eight to 10 guests. Over the banquette

“One of the ways we delineated living and

another San Antonio artist. “This painting

House without hierarchy The vision started with raising the roof.

“Every ceiling in the house was 8 feet

hangs Peaches and Cream by Juan Farias,

high,” Tobin says. “There was a heavy

entertaining spaces was with ceiling

has been the focal point in several of

feeling of compression. Something had

heights,” Tobin says. “This polished traver-

Suzanne’s homes,” Tobin says. “She fur-

to be done about that. The street view

tine fireplace is 9-and-a-half feet tall and

nished the living and dining room spaces

was definitely underwhelming — the ele-

has a stainless steel flue pipe. This draws

around this piece.”

vation was materially monotonous. We

the eye up to the ceiling, which is made of

decided to salvage what we could and

vertical grain Douglas fir. At its peak, the

Around the corner from the dining area is

went to work.”

sloping ceiling is 17-and-a-half feet high.”

the kitchen. “We left the kitchen in its orig-

“I love architecture and plans,” Suzanne

The living space is simply furnished, with a

says. “As an interior designer, space lay-

low sofa, upholstered bench and a modern

and because of the views out the win-

outs are my thing. Because of building re-

armchair. To anchor the space, the pair

dows,” Suzanne says.

inal location because of its easy access to

strictions, it made sense to keep the

chose an artistic Stalingrad articulated

perimeter walls where they were, but we

chandelier from Bourgeois Boheme Atelier.

had to move the interior walls to achieve

the elevator we use to bring up groceries

“The kitchen is divided into three zones,” she continues. “There is the triangular area

our goals. It was like putting a puzzle to-

“In the main living space, you‘ll notice

gether. Our contractor, Troy Jessee, a fam-

there aren’t any recessed lights,” Suzanne

refrigerator, where most of the cooking is

ily friend, was a great help with it.”

says. “Tobin didn’t want the ceiling marred

done. There‘s the coffee bar with the penin-

with holes. Much of the illumination in this

sula, which separates the cooking area from

area is accomplished with uplighting.”

what we call the buffet. When we entertain

houses, it was all about a singular plane.

A nook in the living room serves as

allow us to set food out for guests. This area

“This was a house without hierarchy,” Tobin says. “Like many other 1950s ranch

between the Wolf range, sink and Sub-Zero

casually, I wanted a long counter that would

We needed to relieve the compression of

Suzanne’s study. Built-ins house file drawers

has a warming drawer, lots of cabinets and

the low ceilings and provide vertical free-

and bookshelves. The built-in desk is sited

drawers specially sized for serving dishes.”

dom in the house’s main living core. To do

beneath a window that provides natural

that, we surgically removed the entry and

light for study. Between the shelves and the

the living room and added a hovering roof

desk hangs a colorful oil painting of a mon-

house by sliding closed the pocket doors

over the space. We replaced the back wall,

key by San Antonio artist Lloyd Walsh.

at either end. Like the living room ceiling,

The kitchen can be sealed off from the

which faces southeast, with massive sliding glass doors under a deep overhang.”

Stunning entry The heavy front door was a collaboration of Tobin and a colleague, Tom Fling. Tom clad the pivoting 11-and-a-half-foot door with steel strips from an old voltage regulator recovered from the Friedrich Building in downtown San Antonio.

“This became a piece of art for the house,” Tobin says. “There’s no conventional door handle. Instead, Tom integrated a recessed cartridge brass pull that you slide your hand into. It has a smooth, solid feel.”

Beyond the threshold is what Suzanne calls the entry space. Two modern chairs and a small table are positioned so

september/october 2014 | 29

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SA AT HOME the cabinets are clear-sealed vertical grain Douglas fir, hand-finished with tung oil.

The countertop is Caesarstone Quartz in buttermilk. The backsplash is subway tile made of hand-cast glass with paper pulp.

To the left of the front door is a short hallway that leads to the master suite. At the end of this axis hangs a Michael Wayne mixed media abstract Suzanne bought for the house. Wayne is another noted San Antonio artist.

Spacious simplicity The master suite is a statement in spacious simplicity, providing views of the front and rear of the house. “Our modern approach is about stripping away extraneous elements,” Tobin says. As in other parts of the residence, there is no window trim, baseboards or crown molding.

Suzanne recovered the padded headboard for the king-sized bed. The end tables flanking the bed were custom-made to fit the available space. The Fu dog lamps were originally ceramic accent pieces belonging to Suzanne’s mother.

The abstract painting over the bed is another Michael Wayne piece.

Another pocket door leads to the master bath, where the vanity was custom-made to fit Suzanne. “The cabinetmaker measured me sitting on my vanity stool so he’d know what height to use for the countertop and makeup cabinet,” she says. The makeup cabinet has a bifold door to save space.

A sheet mirror hangs over the double vanity; a television is centered in the glass.

The tub sits beneath large corner windows and a Marie Swartz digital photograph of a geisha. The shower is a travertine box with a window that opens, a rainhead shower and a smooth river rock floor.

The large master closet originally had no From top, a casual area for relaxing; the dining area, which adjoins the living room; and Suzanne's studio. The painting over the dining room banquette is Peaches and Cream by San Antonio artist Juan Farias.

30 | sawoman.com

windows. Tobin inserted clerestory windows to obtain northern light. The cabinets and drawers were all custom-made to meet clothing, boot and shoe sizes for Suzanne and Rick. A laundry chute slides dirty clothes directly to the laundry room in the basement below.

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SA AT HOME

The master bedroom has custom-made tables flanking the king-sized bed.

Lamps made from Fu dog ceramic pieces provide illumination; the painting is by Michael Wayne.

This basement rocks!

Stairs to the lower level are located off the kitchen. An Arteriors orb fixture lights the way. At the bottom of the stairs hang two paintings originally owned by Suzanne’s father, gifts from San Antonio oil tycoon Tom Slick. A pocket door seals the lower level from the rest of the house, which is handy when Rick is rocking in his music studio, Suzanne says.

This level serves a number of purposes. It houses a guest room, full bath, Rick’s music room, Suzanne’s studio, a pingpong table and an area to relax and watch television. The south wall features a large sliding door that opens to the pool patio in the backyard.

“Working on this structure was interesting because it was about contrasting experiences,” Tobin says. “Upstairs is about verticality — we raised the ceiling to celebrate the space. Downstairs we worked with compression — the floor overhead was a given, and we could only gain 6 inches in height by exposing the wood joists. By using sight lines, texture of exposed structure and lots of natural light, we were able to create a casual living space that works well for Suzanne and Rick.”

“Rick and I love our house,” Suzanne says. “Working with Tobin was such a great experience — he’s really responsible for the success of the project. I can truly say I can’t think of anything we‘d do differently if we had to do it again. It‘s really perfect.”

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september/october 2014 | 33

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FASHION CALENDAR

September 10 Saks Fifth Avenue Brunello Cuccinelli Fall 2014 Collection Trunk Show

October 8 Saks Fifth Avenue Roberto Coin Fine Jewelry Trunk Show

Neiman Marcus September 10 Stella McCartney Designer Sportswear Styling Event

October 9-10 Elizabeth Gillett Accessories Gerard Yosca Jewelry Sondra Roberts Handbags

Saks Fifth Avenue September 11 Etro Fall Collection and Luncheon September 11 St. John Designer Sportswear

October 9-11 Lafayette 148 Sportswear Trunk Show

September 18-19 Dian Malouf Jewelry Trunk Show

Julian Gold

September 19-20 Carolina Herrera Bridal Trunk Show

Julian Gold

October 10 Neiman Marcus David Yurman Fall 2014 Collection Designer Jewelry Julian Gold

October 15-16 Saks Fifth Avenue Katy Briscoe Fine Jewelry Trunk Show

September 22-October 4 Neiman Marcus Buccellati Precious Jewelry Salon September 25 Saks Fifth Avenue Bulgari Fine Jewelry Trunk Show

October 16 Saks Fifth Avenue John Hardy Fine Jewelry Trunk Show October 16-17 Emmelle Sportswear Trunk Show October 16-19 Key to the Cure Event Benefiting CTRC

Julian Gold

Saks Fifth Avenue

Julian Gold October 21-22 Julian Gold Starfire Jewelry Trunk Show Dianaira Sportswear Trunk Show

September 26 Saks Fifth Avenue Ippolita Fashion Jewelry Trunk Show September 26 Neiman Marcus Anthony Luciano Personal Appearance Custom Handbag Event

34 | sawoman.com

Julian Gold

October 14-15 Planet Casual Sportswear Christina Greene Jewelry

September 20 Neiman Marcus CUSP — Women That Rock Event Level Two

October 2-3 Peggy Jennings Couture Trunk Show

Julian Gold

October 7-8 St. John Designer Trunk Show

Julian Gold

October 7-8 Ivanka Trump Precious Jewelry Salon

Saks Fifth Avenue October 9-10 Nini Fine Jewelry Trunk Show

Neiman Marcus

Julian Gold September 11-12 Liza Beth Personal Appearance Jewelry Trunk Show

September 25-26 Rena Lange Designer Trunk Show

Julian Gold

October 28-29 Lela Rose Designer Trunk Show

Julian Gold

October 31 Saks Fifth Avenue Barry Brinker Fashion Jewelry Trunk Show November 5-7 Saks Fifth Avenue Nini Fine Jewelry Trunk Show November 8 Neiman Marcus Ippolita Designer Jewelry Trunk Show

Neiman Marcus November 11-13 Saks Fifth Avenue Piranesi Fine Jewelry Trunk Show

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FABULOUS FINDS

IZZY ORIENTAL RUGS Come to Izzy Oriental Rugs NEW LOCATION and see this beautiful 1900’s c. antique Anatolian Oushak room size rug that measures 12.6 x13 ft. This beautiful rug will enhance any room decor. Remember we also provide professional cleaning and repair services for any size rug!

1411 W. Hildebrand, 78201 (210) 829-4211 We are now located at:

PEÑALOZA & SONS

GO SPURS GO. What better way to celebrate our National Championship team? Yellow and white gold flanked by 5 princess cut diamonds on each side.

Available at Peñaloza & Sons.

2001 N.W. Military Hwy., 78213 (210) 340-3536 www.penalozaandsons.com

CHALET A new cosmetics line just launched in San Antonio! Chalet Cosmetics is founded by Cindy Holland-Rodriguez. Chalet brings the latest scientific research to skin care to give powerful products and the results you are looking for. Chalet believes in giving back to the community. 10% of the proceeds of all Chalet products will be donated to local and national charities.

Look for Chalet at Alamo Ranch and on Broadway in Alamo Heights (210) 829-7700 www.shopthechalet.com 36 | sawoman.com

By ANNE MOORE

“She’s looks radiant ” or “she’s just glowing” and such statements are often uttered about a young bride or mother-to-be.

That’s what is really happening because our younger, tighter, smoother skin provides a canvas to reflect light.

As we age, wrinkles and pigmentation (brownish) spots appear. We may have scarring from acne. Most of us have damaged our skin by exposing ourselves to years of abuse from the sun’s rays. Many “mature” women smoked cigarettes, because it was oh-so- glamorous in the movies. After all, it had not yet been proven — or even suggested — that smoking or sunbathing, golfing, tennis and other outdoor pursuits could cause damage, particularly later in life. We didn’t know that we’d be living as long as we do today, or that these types of damage weren’t simply aesthetic. We didn’t know these damages could be deadly.

Only a few decades ago, the fix for aging skin called for an entire face-lift, which was painful and meant seclusion for a month or more. Only the rich could afford cosmetic procedures. And surgery was dicier, since it required a general anesthetic using products not nearly as refined and predictable as they are today. The invasive procedure required cutting the skin around the face, pulling the skin until taut, trimming away the excess and stitching all the way around. The results were so drastic anyone could tell immediately that you’d “had something done.”

BEAUTY

W

Want

smoother

tighter

glowing

skin?

— without surgery

Minimally invasive cosmetic dermatology offers many options

Today, many women (and men) still prefer to go the surgical face-lift route, especially since the dangers, downtime, techniques and results are so much more favorable. A skilled plastic surgeon can give you a “refreshed and natural” look.

No nips, no tucks.

The evolution of minimally invasive cosmetic dermatology (no knives, no general anesthesia) can accomplish the aesthetic goals you may have — improved texture, volume, tightness and the resurfacing of damaged skin. Using advanced techniques and treatments, physicians can accomplish a natural, enhanced appearance with one treatment type or a combination of treatments. These will be determined after a consultation with your dermatologist when your desires, medical history and budget will determine treatment recommendations.

Cosmetic treatments developed naturally as a complementary tool for use in medical dermatology to provide rejuvenation of your natural features, along with any medical treatments required for acne, scarring, resurfacing and other skin diseases or difficulties. They create a synergistic relationship between health and beauty.

Most of the following treatment options require no downtime, no hospitalization, no general anesthetic and can be painlessly completed in an hour or less:

Please note: Health insurance does NOT cover cosmetic treatments and procedures. september/october 2014 | 39

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BEAUTY Chemical peels on the face, neck and hands are used to refine the skin’s texture and tone.

Laser resurfacing is another way to reduce wrinkles, acne scarring and pigmentation spots.

Fraxel re:store is a laser resurfacing treatment used to improve the appearance of mild forms of skin damage caused by acne, scars, sun and age spots. A series of three to four sessions, three weeks apart, is about average for this treatment. Recovery period is only two days.

Fraxel re:pair is a stronger laser resurfacing treatment used where there is a higher degree of skin damage.

Complete healing requires a week or more.

Restylane, Perlane, Juvederm and Bolotero are hyaluronic acidbased fillers.

Hyaluronic acid is the fluid in your eyes, and it also lubricates your joints and keeps your skin supple. Since we don’t produce as much hyaluronic acid as we age, we develop those wrinkles running from the nose to the mouth and from the mouth to the chin.

Treatment can be accomplished in one session.

Ultherapy uses ultrasound technology, which enables the doctor to visualize and treat the structures supporting the skin for increased collagen production in deep layers of the skin over a period of three to six months. Results include tightened skin, adding lift and firmness.

Liquid face-lift is accomplished by using a combination of injectable treatments and procedures to lift features and improve facial contouring. This procedure addresses lines, wrinkles, folds, jowls, downturned corners of the mouth and the eyelids and brows.

Pellieve uses radio frequency technology to penetrate the deep skin layers to enhance structural features by stimulating collagen production. Several treatment sessions are required periodically.

40 | sawoman.com

Neuromodulators are formulas which are injected to relax certain muscles of the face to accomplish a “refreshed” look. FDA-approved brands include Botox, Dysport and Xeomin, which are similar in chemical composition using purified proteins. With a fine needle, these neuromodulators are injected under the skin where unwanted facial lines appear — crow’s feet, horizontal forehead lines and vertical lines (called elevens) between the eyebrows. Botox is also approved for treatment of underarm sweating.

Dermal fillers are injected to add volume where age and gravity have caused sagging.

Radiesse is a gel used to add volume immediately while also stimulating the production of collagen.

Sculptra Aesthetic injections trigger the production of collagen, gradually resulting in jawline definition, firming the skin of the chin and neck and lifting the corners of the mouth. The results are long-lasting.

A word to the wise When you decide to check out your facial enhancement options, be sure to have a dermatologist — a medical doctor who specializes in skin care and the underlying structure — perform any type of minimally invasive procedures. Other types of physicians are usually not experienced with the use of these treatment materials and devices. Nor is an assistant who has attended a one-day seminar. And don’t fall for “bargain” injections or ”injection parties.”

You must also be cautious about doctors who fly in from another country for a day of injections and then fly out, never to be heard from again. There are horror stories of some of the materials used for injections ... things like motor oil ... causing major disfigurement to the victim.

Ladies, we are talking about injecting substances into your faces!

september/october 2014 | 41

AROUND TOWN

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E V EN TS / P EO P LE /P LA CES / OPE NI N GS

1

2

3

4

5

Friends of Autism Treatment Center Reception 1. Terry Brechtel, Roger Gray and Anna Hundley 2. Laura Barberena and Teresa Menendez 3. Len Leek and Cecilia Herrera 4.Maria Duncan, George Long and Ivy Zwicker

San Antonio Bar Auxiliary Luncheon 5. Rita Thompson, Cindy Farney and Jaquie Rothermel

6

Revelers Dinner Dance 6. Sue and Richard Dullnig with Beverly Purcell-Guerra and Dr. Fernando Guerra

september/october 2014 | 43

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By ANNE MOORE

HEALTH

Invasive Breast Cancer:

The Basics What women (and men) need to know This year, 230,000 women and 2,200 men are expected to be diagnosed with invasive breast cancer. Don't become one of them. Since knowledge could be the key to survival, the following may answer some of your questions:

What is breast cancer?

Cells in our bodies divide, grow and replace the cells that die. When

What are some risk factors that increase the development of breast cancer?

cells grow out of control, excess cells collect in a part of the body, such

For both sexes: aging, family history of breast cancer, personal

as a breast, forming a tumor. If the tumor is malignant, it is breast can-

history of breast cancer, hormones or hormone therapy containing

cer. If the cancer metastasizes, it spreads to another part of the body.

a combination of estrogen and progesterone, BRCA2 gene mutation, alcohol use, obesity, prior exposure to radiation.

Do men get breast cancer?

Men have breast tissue, so they can get breast cancer, although it is

Additional risk factors for women: Menstruation before age 12 or menopause after age 55. Not having a child or having a child after

much rarer than among women. Unfortunately, many men do not re-

age 30. Klinefelter's syndrome (a genetic condition related to high

alize it could happen to them, so may not notice a change in their

levels of estrogen in the body.) Liver disorders. White women are

breast or may be embarrassed to bring it up. Fact is, the smaller male

more at risk; African-American women develop cancer more fre-

breast means any cancer will spread to the chest wall.

quently under age 45.

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HEALTH

A Word from the Doctor

What are symptoms of breast cancer?

Any change or abnormality in the breast or chest area, including a lump or hard knot, a thickening, dimpling, puckering or redness of the skin. Also, swelling, nipple inversion or discharge. Men may experience an itchy, scaly sore or rash on the nipple.

How is breast cancer diagnosed?

Along with your monthly self-examination, your physician's

“Breast cancer screening should be individualized.

While x-ray screening mammograms are the standard of care for the average-risk population, women with increased risk should have additional screening by a breast MRI.” Jui-Lien “Lillian” Chou, MD Breast Care Specialist Aurora Breast Center

examination, your medical history and a screening mammogram, you might undergo more tests. If you are considered “at risk,” you could require an MRI or 3D digital breast mammogram or an ultrasound for further diagnosis. A biopsy may be performed where a sample of fluid in a tumor or a small sample of breast/tumor tissue is taken. Additional imaging used to determine if cancer has spread could include chest X-ray, Computerized Topography (CT scan), Position Emission Tomography (PET) and bone scan. Other tests might include a blood chemistry study to measure amounts of certain “telling” substances.

For example, certain hereditary DNA mutations can increase the risk of cancer. DNA is the chemical in our cells that makes up our genes and provides the “instructions” for how our cells

“Who is the most important person in your defense against breast cancer? You are! Most screening examinations will be normal, but when they are not, the earlier a cancer is found, the easier it is to treat. Prioritizing your own early detection is a gift you give to family, friends and co-workers — as well as yourself. Are you guilty of delay? Act today.”

function. The most common of these DNA mutations are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. These genes are supposed to keep

Heidi Heck, MD Seven Oaks Women's Center

breast cells from growing abnormally by producing proteins that prevent mutation. Mutated, these genes can no longer suppress abnormal cell growth. Genetic testing can identify women who have inherited the BRCA mutations. An oncologist working with a pathologist can determine if the cells or tumor is cancerous and if the cancer is spreading to other areas in your body.

What is breast cancer “staging”?

Staging is the process used to determine the extent of cancer in the body. Combined cancer type and stage is used to prescribe the appropriate treatment and to predict chances for survival. In the United States, the system for staging is known as TNM: T indicates the size of the tumor, N describes the extent of the spread to the lymph nodes or the area around the breast,

Self-breast exams should be encouraged, starting in a woman’s early 20s and done on a monthly basis.

Clinical breast exams by her doctor should be done at her annual visits. Yearly mammograms are recommended starting at age 40, or sometimes earlier, depending on her family history. Additional MRI and/or genetic testing might also be recommended if she has a family history of breast cancer.

Michelle J. Muldrow, DO, Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute for Women’s Health

and M indicates any cancer spread to organs of the body. The results from the TNM matrix are then categorized as one of five staging groups, ranging from stage 0 to stage IV.

What are treatment options for breast cancer?

Treatment is determined by the type of cancer and the staging group results.

Chemotherapy treats cancer with medications given by mouth or by injection or drip and so on. Radiation therapy destroys cancer cells with high-energy rays or beams focused

Recently, different sources with varying opinions have created confusion about how often to screen for breast cancer and when to start. One of the key ingredients to survival is early detection. Routine screening mammography has been shown to find cancer earlier and save lives.

onto the affected area. Brachytherapy is radiation delivered by implanting little seeds directly into the breast. A lumpectomy removes only the breast lump and surrounding tissue. A partial mastectomy involves the removal of only part of the breast,

Justin Boatsman, MD South Texas Radiology Imaging Centers Primary Specialty: Breast Imaging, Diagnostic Radiology

while a mastectomy requires removal of all of the breast tissue.

In a radical mastectomy, breast tissue, lymph nodes and the muscle of the chest wall are removed.

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Shapiro S. Periodic screening for breast cancer: the health insurance plan project and its sequelae, 1963–1986 Baltimore, Md: Johns Hopkins University Press, 1988.

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HEALTH

Before any mastectomy procedure, be sure to ask your doctor and a board-certified plastic surgeon about breast reconstruction. Hormone therapy or an “engineered” antibody can be used to help reduce the chances of recurrence of cancer.

What about voluntary prophylactic surgery?

Women who have the abnormal BRCA genes might choose this aggressive procedure to reduce their heightened risk of breast cancer by removal of both breasts and their ovaries. This surgery is being chosen more frequently by younger women since the younger the age, the more benefit is realized.

What if I am diagnosed with breast cancer?

You'll probably feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious, helpless, outof-control. Maybe you'll experience fear or denial. You'll need a support group of family and friends to help with daily life — household chores, shopping and other errands. Ask for the help you need! Talk to a social worker or counselor or breast cancer survivors. Recovery requires you to be strong physically, mentally, spiritually. And time.

And patience.

Remember, knowledge is power — knowing what to expect may give you a sense of having some control, a partner in decision making.

50 | sawoman.com

What resources are available?

1-877- GO KOMEN (1-877-465-6636) www.komen.org American Cancer Society 1-800-ACS-2345 www.cancer.org CancerCare® 1-800-813-HOPE www.cancercare.org Also look into local cancer advocacy organizations, cancer treatment centers, support groups and places of worship.

september/october 2014 | 51

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By DENISE EASDON

WINE

The Wine Bottle Exploring the variations in size, shape and color.

Wine bottles are available in a variety of different shapes, colors and sizes. The standard size of a

wine bottle is 750 mL (25 ounces), but bottles can be as large as 500 ounces (the Nebuchadnezzar, a rare large-format bottle).

The three most common bottle shapes are Bordeaux, Burgundy and German Riesling. Ordinarily, wine comes in glass bottles, the best way to preserve the life of the wine. Other containers such as cardboard boxes or plastic bottles are insufficient for long-term wine preservation.

Although the modern era of wine storage utilizes the glass bottle, ancient Rome used larger vessels known as amphora jars to store and transport wine. An amphora, also used by the Greeks, is typically a large pottery jar with two handles for ease of transport and pouring of wine. The porous jars were sealed with a pine resin to prevent leakage and protect the wine from exposure to oxygen. The jars were marked or stamped on the bottom along with various symbols that could be added to the sides to identify the pottery and its owner.

While on a recent trip to northern Italy, I discovered a few smaller wineries still using amphora jars for the making and storage of wine. The Romans are credited with inventing the technique for glass blowing, which indicates an early use of glass bottles for wine. Pottery and stoneware were popular until the 17th century, when the capabilities for commercial glass production became available.

Wine bottles from Bordeaux, France, are cylindrical in shape with a short neck. This bottle style is used throughout the world for both red and white wines. The Rhone and Burgundy regions of France produce a bottle with a fatter, rounder shape and a longer neck than the Bordeaux bottles. This same shape is frequently used for chardonnay from around the globe in honor of the famed chardonnay, white Burgundy.

German wine bottles are tall and thin with an elongated neck. This tall, sleek bottle is also used for the Picpoul wines of Languedoc, France, along with the French muscadet wines. The Chianti wines from amphora jars

Italy are characteristically in a bottle with a round bottom wrapped in a straw basket. Today’s wineries from this region are offering a premium Chianti packaged in the more traditional Bordeaux-shaped bottle. Even though the contour of the bottle varies, this does not necessarily reflect the quality of the wine.

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The challenge with so many different shapes is that they may be difficult to store.

The indention on the bottom of the bottle, known as the punt, also varies in size and is important for restaurant sommelier service. Sommeliers place their thumb in the punt to assist in the pouring of the wine. The deeper the indention, the easier it is to control and grip the bottle. For example, a bottle with an exceptionally large punt is the

punt

Dept. 66 wine from winemaker Dave Phinney of Orin Swift.

Consideration for the color of the glass used is also a key part of the wine bottle. A darker-colored glass will protect the wine from the sun (the sunlight can break down the antioxidants such as vitamin C and tannin, which affect the life of the wine). Lighter-colored or clear glass is typical of large-production wines meant for immediate consumption.

Different countries use different colors for their wine bottles, although the principal colors for the bottles are green (light or dark), blue and amber. Bordeaux will have dark green for reds, light green for drier-style whites and a clear glass for sweet whites. In this case, Bordeaux will use a clear glass to show the beautiful color transition of the wine as it ages.

Burgundy bottles are green; Champagne will be dark to medium green; rosé from Champagne uses a lighter-colored or clear glass to accentuate the beauty of the rosé wine color. The Mosel region of Germany frequently uses green bottles, while most of the Rheingau region of Germany uses the amber-colored bottles. Both regions occasionally use blue.

The density of the glass used for a wine bottle differs according to the winery. A heavier bottle serves as protection from breakage and also gives prominence to the bottle.

The impressionable weight of the bottle is often associated with a premium-quality wine (the winery spared no cost to produce an intense and sophisticated bottle of wine).

Lighter-weight bottles offer less expense both for production of the wine and for shipping, which keeps the cost down for consumers; they also have a smaller carbon footprint on the environment.

The smallest bottle size for wine is 187 mL, customarily produced in a plastic bottle and generally meant to be consumed within the first year of production. Next in size is the 375 mL bottle, also known as the “half bottle.” The 375 mL bottles are available in most fine dining restaurants. The size of the bottle can also affect aging of the wine. The 375 mL bottles have the shortest aging capability because the ullage of these bottles is equal to a 750 mL and larger bottle. (Ullage is the headspace between the wine and the cork or closure of the wine bottle). After the 375 mL bottle, the next size and most uni-

is known as the “standard size bottle” (abbreviated as SSB).

The Burgundy and Champagne regions of France are renowned for bottles larger than the 750 mL. The next size is a 1.5 mL bottle, also known as a “magnum” (equal to two SSB). Next are the jeroboam (aka double magnum, equal to four SSB), the

Rehoboam

Methuselah

(six

(eight

SSB), SSB),

the the

Salmanazar (12 SSB), the Balthazar (16 SSB), and lastly the very rare Nebuchadnezzar (20 SSB).

Denise Easdon is a certified

ICON HILL for Leo Hillinger Winery

versal is the 750 mL bottle, which

Outside of the conventional boundaries for wine bottle shapes, wineries often produce a uniquely shaped bottle in order to impress or intrigue the consumer. No matter the shape, color, or size of the bottle, find a wine that pleases your palate and enjoy.

sommelier and a certified specialist of wine.

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BUSINESS WOMAN SPOTLIGHT

Helen Velesiotis Owner, President and CEO

Taco Taco Café

Length of time at this job: 15 years.

What is your all time favorite movie?

There are two: The Magnificent Seven and Gone with the Wind.

What is it that you like best about your job?

Creating food and serving people.

What type of music do you like?

Classical, soft rock and Greek music.

Education/Major: Business school.

Who has been the biggest influence in your life personally and professionally?

Professionally, Tim Blonkvist, and, of course, my husband and my family.

What do you do?

I manage all aspects of my business.

What career path led you to where you are today? I have owned several different businesses — retail, convenience stores and restaurants.

When did you know that you were in the right place in your career?

When I saw the warmth of my customers.

Would you encourage your children to go into the same field?

Yes, I would.

Who were your mentors?

Debbie Ann Balthazar, John Nicolaou, Aunt Dia and my mother.

What did you want to be when you were growing up?

A clothing designer.

What person do you most admire? There are several: Mary Alice Cisneros, Dr. Ricardo Romo, David Tuttle and Judge Orlando Garcia.

What do you enjoy doing on a day off? Spending time with my family, making delicious food and eating together.

What is your favorite vacation?

Santorini, the Greek islands and Paris, France.

What do you like to do in your spare time? I enjoy cooking, baking, sewing, designing and decorating.

What book(s) have you read lately?

Hard Choices by Hillary Clinton.

What is your all time favorite book? The Diary of Anne Frank.

Photo By CASEY HOWELL

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What’s the best movie you have seen in the last year? Draft Day.

What brought you to San Antonio?

God, and I am most grateful to Him. What do you like most about San Antonio?

The culture and the way of life.

What community groups or notfor-profit groups are you involved with as a volunteer? The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, Sunshine Cottage, American Sunrise and August Heart.

Do you have a favorite restaurant?

Taco Taco Cafe, of course.

Do you have a favorite dish?

Enchiladas Verdes and Puffy Picadillo Tacos.

How do you find balance in your life — career, community and home life?

I try to do everything as well as I can while moving fast.

What is your favorite relaxation strategy? To go shopping!

What are your goals?

To bring Taco’s authentic Mexican food to tables all over the world.

What is the best advice that you have ever received?

"When you have your health and your family, you have everything."

People would be surprised to know that …

I love Taco Taco, love San Antonio and love the people. Actually, maybe they wouldn't be surprised.

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Serving Seniors Taking care of the elderly is a rewarding profession for these women Growing older is a part of life, albeit one that many of us look to with a combination of fear and trepidation. We worry about our health, quality of life, finances and other issues that accompany the golden years.

The women in this month’s feature have devoted themselves to alleviating some of those concerns for seniors and their families.

Whether it’s providing them with help around the house, assisting them with their specialized medical and dental needs, creating an active community in which they can live or simply hanging out with them and sharing a cup of coffee, these women are devoted to the demographic they serve. While they admit that there are certain challenges related to dealing with the senior community, these women are in unanimous agreement that serving this segment of the population is a privilege. The stories they hear, the life lessons they learn and the friends they meet all add up to more than just a career for them — it’s a calling.

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By BONNY OSTERHAGE

Photography by CASEY HOWELL

“It’s an intervention to give them more quality time at home and allow them to live out the lifestyle to which they are accustomed.”

AA Care Services is not Helen’s first foray into the world of elderly care. Prior to this, she owned a Medicare home health agency and a private home health agency. By the time she opened AA Care Services, she had a very clear vision of the services her company would provide.

The concept is relatively simple: A caregiver makes a home visit to meet the senior citizen and the family, assesses the individual needs that are required and develops a care plan of the services that will be provided. Those services can range from assisting with personal grooming, to preparing meals, driving to doctor’s appointments, grocery shopping and anything else that makes life easier and more manageable for the senior. A self-described “people person,” Helen considers the care giving a labor of love.

“You get to enter into the life of someone who has usually had a long and notable career, or has overcome obstacles, raised large families and dealt with highs and lows,” she explains. Over the years, she and her team have worked with a woman who was a WWII spy, along with a man who, with three Purple Hearts, was the most decorated colonel in the United States. “These people are fascinating,” she exclaims.

Helen is so fascinated by this demographic, in fact, that she makes a point to interact with seniors in her down time as well. An avid traveler, she engages with the seniors she encounters, listens to their tales and blogs about their experiences. “I met one couple that are 92 years old and they still go out dancing,” she recalls.

An active individual herself, Helen walks two miles a day three to four days per week, exercises at her local gym and is an active member of several organizations, including Toastmasters, the New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce and the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO). She encourages people to stay active and maintain a healthy lifestyle in order to enjoy a higher quality of life.

“Remain physically active for as long as you can, and eat healthy foods,” advises the RN. “It makes you better able to function both mentally and physically.”

Helen Trowsdale Geriatric Care Manager AA Care Services Watering our plants, walking our dogs, trips to the grocery store …

If there is one downside to Helen’s line of work, it is the challenges that arise from family dynamics. Too often, she finds that children will place their elderly parents into retirement homes against their will and make all of their decisions for them. In these situations, Helen tries to

these things are all a part of daily life that many of us take for granted.

work with the children and help them to understand that they still need

For the elderly, however, something as simple as getting dressed in

to listen to and respect the wishes of their elderly parents.

the morning can require assistance. It is at that point that many families choose to place their elderly relatives in an assisted living facility,

“Just because they have gotten wrinkles and gray hair doesn’t

sometimes against their wishes. Helen Trowsdale, a registered nurse,

mean that the person inside isn’t still there,” she says. “These people

wanted to keep that from happening. Although she referred patients

should still command dignity and respect simply because they are

to nonmedical home health care agencies, she says that she began to

human beings.”

notice that many of those agencies had no medical oversight and lacked knowledge of the life changes that occur in the lives of this seg-

Helen enjoys a close relationship with her only daughter, who works

ment of the population. “I thought I could do it better and provide a

with her in the business, handling the bookkeeping, invoicing and

higher level of care,” she states emphatically.

Helen opened AA Care Services in 2009 to provide nonmedical

other financial aspects of the company. As she looks ahead at her own twilight years and retirement, Helen, a dual citizen of the United States

services to seniors and adults living at home who need assistance with

and Canada, plans to spend as much time as possible traveling be-

everything from personal care to transportation. Now with two loca-

tween her two homes and spending time in the communities, getting

tions, AA (which stands for “always available”) services San Antonio,

to know the people that reside there. “I can make a friend in an eleva-

New Braunfels, Austin and the surrounding communities.

tor,” she laughs.

“Our goal is to help them live in their own homes and adhere to their own habits and routines for as long as possible,” explains Helen.

What she will take with her from her experiences in serving the elderly are life lessons. The most important one she has gleaned so far? september/october 2014 | 57

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

“Try to live in peace and harmony, and don’t hold grudges,” she ad-

care,” explains Sarah, adding that there were not the options available

vises, adding that life is short and she has seen too many families torn

to patients that there are today. “The filling materials weren’t as good,

apart by disagreements. “Forgiveness and being merciful to others is

and back then teeth were pulled, while now we are able to save them.”

very important.”

But when it comes to dental care for the elderly, it isn’t just about the teeth. There are many other factors that must be dealt with, and Sarah has set up her practice to make sure that the experience is as pleasant and convenient as possible. For example, many of her patients take blood thinners, so Sarah has set up a machine to check the Coumadin levels right in the office. Another differentiator is a wheelchair lift that allows patients to remain in their chair for the entire exam.

Smaller but equally

important considerations include

things like punctuality, so that those with specialized transportation don’t have a wait time, fully accessible restrooms and a daily mobile dental service for nursing homes and assisted living facilities. The latter is an especially relevant service. An article in the New York Times reported that nursing home elders are not getting their teeth brushed every day. Sarah, who was quoted in that article, says she finds that inexcusable. “It’s a huge issue that is such a simple thing,” she says.

Sarah special orders “magic toothbrushes” for her patients to make oral care easier. These highly effective brushes have rounded bristles to clean all surfaces of the tooth at once.

“These will get even the most uncoordinated patient’s teeth clean,” she explains.

These little “extras” are just a few of the ways that Sarah goes above and beyond to take care of her patients. She is actively committed to their dental health and well-being and serves on several national organizations, including the Association of State and Territorial Dental Directors Healthy Aging Committee. “We have oral care advocates from all over the country who get together to come up with better access to dental care for frail elders,” she says.

When she isn’t busy attending conferences, sitting on boards or seeing her patients, this mother of three grown children relaxes by walking and listening to classical music, but her patients are never far from her mind. She is always looking at ways to make their experience more comfortable, researching ways to help them save their teeth and exploring new advances on the horizon.

Dr. Sarah Dirks, DDS Geriatric Dental Group

One of the most exciting advances to Sarah is the finding that elders can tolerate surgical procedures and dental implants that have been

As a member of the faculty at UTHSCSA Dental School and the di-

available to the younger demographic. “Dental implants make the dif-

rector of the geriatric dental clinic, Sarah Dirks noticed that there was

ference in the ability to eat or not eat in elders,” explains Sarah. “I re-

a gaping hole in private dental practices. Namely, no one was serving

cently had a 103-year-old patient get them, but he did it for cosmetic

the seniors. “The frail elders had nowhere to go in the community, so

purposes.”

they would call the dental school,” says the Nebraska native. “I realized

Sarah says her practice continues to grow at a rapid rate, but as

there needed to be a private practice that served our senior citizens.”

busy as she is, she still finds the work incredibly rewarding. “It gives

Recognizing the need, Sarah opened the Geriatric Dental Group nine years ago to address the special concerns of this population.

“This is the greatest generation who grew up without good dental

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you a real purpose,” she says happily. “I am filling a need, and the patients are so grateful and tell us every day how they feel like they are more than just a number in a dental chair.”

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Dr. Phallon Doss Doss Audiology and Hearing Center If you’ve ever seen someone’s eyes light up when they hear a sound for the first time, then you will understand why Dr. Phallon Doss has devoted her career to making the world a more joyful place for the hearing-impaired.

A San Antonio native, Phallon says that, from taking sign language in high school to studying deaf education at Texas Women’s University, she has always been drawn to helping the hearing-impaired. She briefly considered a career in teaching the hard of hearing, but after discovering her interest in the scientific part of the process, she pursued her doctor of audiology degree from the University of North Texas. She began her career in the highly specialized area of interoperative monitoring of neurosurgery patients before opening her own practice one year ago. Today, she specializes in helping senior citizens regain not only their hearing, but also their lives.

Unlike other audiology centers that are simply hearing aid dispensaries, Phallon’s practice is a full-service clinic.

With the science and education to treat hearing loss appropriately, all of the testing is done on site, and all hearing aids and accessories are fitted and purchased on location as well. It is a very patient-focused approach that takes into account not just the physical aspects of hearing loss, but the psychological ramifications as well.

“Hearing loss is a natural part of the aging process, and that can be difficult for some people to accept,” she says.

“There is a stigma surrounding hearing aids and old age, but we are working to change that perspective.” How? Technological advancements have resulted in smaller, more discreet hearing aids, for starters, coupled with connectivity and accessories for iPhone compatibility that make additional Bluetooth adapters obsolete.

Add a celebrity endorsement from the Seattle Seahawks’ Derrick Coleman, and suddenly people aren’t quite as uncomfortable broaching the subject of hearing loss with their doctors. “Derrick Coleman has been a great advocate for reducing the stigma surrounding hearing loss, and that’s exciting,” says Phallon.

Passionate about working with her senior patients, Phallon extends her care of this population to the community. Even with a toddler and a baby on the way, this busy woman finds time to volunteer with the Schertz Senior Center, calling bingo and taking birthday cakes to the facility once a month for celebrations.

“There is so much to be learned from our elders,” she says fondly.

“They have so much wisdom, and they are a fun group to work with.

Some come into my office just to have coffee and chat with my staff.”

Through her personal approach to patient care, Phallon is able to

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develop relationships with her seniors and get a feel for the specific communication difficulty that each patient is having. She learns their history, the environment that they are in on a daily basis and their personal communication goals. From there she is able to make the appropriate recommendations. “The biggest challenge in my profession is telling people something that they just are not willing to accept yet,” she says.

But once they do accept a diagnosis and take the appropriate measures, the rewards for both patient and doctor are amazing. “A lot of people don’t know what they are missing because the hearing loss happens so gradually,” says Phallon. “It is so great to see people get excited about the little things that they are able to hear again.” september/october 2014 | 61

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WOMEN IN BUSINESS

Mandy Williams Principal Partner, Wedgwood Senior Apartments Change is a part of life, but that doesn’t make it any less scary — especially when it involves a change in your home or lifestyle. That’s why, when Entrada Partners purchased the Wedgwood Senior Apartments last year, principal partner Mandy Williams took it upon herself to work personally with the residents to make sure the transition went smoothly and that no one felt displaced.

Mandy, who graduated from Baylor, relocated from Whitney, Texas, to San Antonio in order to focus on Wedgwood, which is one of two properties that Entrada Partners own in the Alamo City, and the only senior facility. When they acquired the 50-year-old property in August of 2013, it was, in Mandy’s words, “a little neglected. Our goal as owners is to rejuvenate the property,” she explains. “It has such a strong history, and we want to bring an era back to the residents.”

To accomplish that, millions of dollars of improvements have been and continue to be made to the facility. Cosmetic upgrades, including full exte-

care and comfort. It’s almost the same as dealing with children.”

rior paint, new furniture in the lobby and new carpet in the hallways,

As the mother of a 12-year-old daughter, Mandy has firsthand

have helped to restore the building to its former glory, while a renovated

knowledge in dealing with children, and like many single working

pool, new fitness center, updated game room and a new movie theater

moms, she strives to find the balance between career and family. Al-

in the works serve to enhance the quality of life of the residents. A new

though she has been in San Antonio only one year, both she and her

activity director was hired to plan and oversee bingo nights, water aer-

daughter have immersed themselves in the community. They are active

obics, sewing classes, monthly dances and other events designed to fa-

members of Community Bible Church, and her daughter is a cheer-

cilitate the feeling of community among all the residents.

“Every few weeks, we try to provide opportunities for structure in their lives,” says Mandy. “We try to focus on seven to 10 activities per day and offer diverse choices.”

leader and band member at San Antonio Christian School. Together, they enjoy exploring the Texas Hill Country and the small towns surrounding San Antonio.

“San Antonio has so much culture,” she says. “Everyone here is so

Mandy has worked in residential real estate for 16 years, and this is

friendly, and it already feels like home.” Creating that “feeling of

the second time she has worked directly with the senior population.

home” for the residents of Wedgwood is what drives Mandy, and her

Her close-knit family and strong relationship with her own grandpar-

success in that area fuels her passion for her profession.

ents have helped her in dealing with the elderly and making decisions in regard to their care and well-being.

“You have to be patient with them and understand where they are coming from,” she says gently. “It’s all about them and their level of

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“The rewards are when a family member comes in and thanks me for making a difference in the life of a resident,” she says happily. “Yes, this is a business I’m running, but if I am taking care of people and they are happy, then the success will come naturally.”

september/october 2014 | 63

Building Connections

TO SAVE LIVES Since 1973

6211 Interstate 10 West, San Antonio, Texas 78201

A special section from

A MESSAGE FROM THE CEO OF BIOBRIDGE GLOBAL

WELCOME TO BIOBRIDGE GLOBAL For many, the name BioBridge Global may be unfamiliar. That’s not particularly surprising since it was only adopted in 2013. However, as we introduce in the following pages the various entities that make up this incredible organization, I feel certain that many of you will recognize – and perhaps even have contributed to and/or benefited from – the health-related services and products we offer.

In our pioneering and still-evolving 40-year history, BioBridge Global, a nonprofit organization, today comprises closely related but independently functioning nonprofit units – the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, QualTex Laboratories and GenCure, as well as the charitable Blood & Tissue Center Foundation. They’re supported by more than 700 dedicated employees working in our state-of-the-art facilities in San Antonio and Victoria, Texas, and Norcross, Ga., and they remain deeply committed to the wellbeing of patients in San Antonio and beyond – a responsibility we don’t take lightly.

Research is a vital component of our work. From stem cell therapies to osteobiological products developed and manufactured on site, we have positioned ourselves at the forefront of the biotechnology and regenerative medicine fields. We’re proud to have helped bring the 10th annual World Stem Cell Summit to San Antonio to showcase the city as a major player in this arena. With the help of the city, mayor and other dignitaries and organizations instrumental in landing the event, we’re forming invaluable partnerships in the international community of stem cell and other medical research.

This important work not only will keep our organization advancing toward the future but will benefit our patients, who are at the heart of what we do.

We hope you’ll come to understand our mission, which wouldn’t be possible without the assistance and generosity of you, the public. We count on your donations to help us deliver lifesaving services. We are humbled and honored to be part of your decision to donate – blood, cord blood, marrow, tissue, funds – to help those ill or injured.

Together, BioBridge Global, its subsidiaries and you can positively impact the lives of thousands.

Thank you for allowing us to share our story!

Linda Myers CEO

A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

OUR

HISTORY

Making a world of difference for 40 years From its humble beginnings in a small leased space in downtown San Antonio to the sprawling, technologically state-of-the-art Alamo City facility BioBridge Global now calls home, this internationally respected institution continues to build on a 40-year legacy. It’s meeting an ever-evolving variety of challenges, all geared to the betterment of humanity – locally and, as the name states, across the globe. Developed initially from necessity, then nurtured and grown through extraordinary vision, BioBridge Global persists in fulfilling its mission to bridge critical medical requirements with innovative solutions, a role it’s uniquely positioned to fill.

BioBridge Global has emerged as a composite of distinct but related subsidiaries functioning separately but interlocked, each dependent on the other to offer lifesaving services worldwide. Each facet is a natural fit, jointly contributing to success in the realm of modern medical therapies and research.

IN THE BEGINNING In 1974, a group of forward-thinking doctors, with the support of the Bexar County Medical Society, recognized the need for the establishment of a blood collection center dedicated to serving area hospitals. At this time, the surrounding medical community was reliant on hospitals’ individually collected supplies, often working with limited in-house facilities. The supplies could be inadequate, and acquiring from outside sources often was difficult. A dedicated entity was required where greater supply could be generated, quality controls enhanced and inventories made rapidly available – hence the creation of the South Texas Regional Blood Bank. In its first year, the new enterprise drew 25,000 blood components utilized by local and regional medical providers and the patients they served.

With the success of that first year, growth was inevitable. By 1976, larger accommodations were required.

After two more moves, the blood bank settled in 1994 into its current space at 6211 Interstate 10 in North Central San Antonio and renamed itself, due to expanded capabilities, the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center.

BUILT TO MEET THE FUTURE In the ensuing years, the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center broadened its mission to include additional tissue procurement and processing; biologic testing services for other entities worldwide; marrow, stem cell and cord blood collection and research; and groundbreaking work in regenerative medicine.

Read on, and you’ll see how the little blood bank from South Texas has evolved into an international player called BioBridge Global, the umbrella for the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, QualTex Laboratories, GenCure – created to hold the Tissue Center, Cellular Therapy Center and Cord Blood Center – and the vital work of The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation.

As the story about its beginnings and where it proudly stands today unfolds, you’re invited to share in its belief that tomorrow offers additional promises in which BioBridge Global can benefit communities in South Texas, the United States and beyond.

THE SOUTH TEXAS BLOOD & TISSUE CENTER Providing the essential link The South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, BioBridge Global’s founding subsidiary, has been providing the lifesaving benefit of donated blood and transfusion services to thousands of area patients since 1974.Throughout its four-decade commitment to San Antonio and the South Texas communities, the STBTC remains an essential link in providing quality health care.

UNIQUE IN ITS FIELD For many, the services and products provided by STBTC may never be needed;

however, in times of illness or injury, its work is obvious. The need for blood components is varied and vital for those facing surgery and certain other treatments. Examples include organ transplantation, hip and knee replacement, lung and heart surgeries and many other procedures where blood replacement is critical. Oncology, dialysis and anemia patients are often recipients as well.

And, of course, those who are subjected to physical trauma may require transfusions.

Fulfilling a need identified years earlier for the establishment of a locally based organiA SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

KABB TV meteorologist Shaun Steven reports from a recent blood drive – and donates blood, too.

zation dedicated solely to the collection and dispersal of blood and tissue products, STBTC has risen to the challenges inherent in a demanding business model. This model relies on precise evaluation and delicate handling of blood while ensuring it gets to patients exactly when needed.

Besides a few exceptions generating at least a portion of their own blood supply for patients, regional hospitals and clinics in the South Texas area rely on STBTC for their blood inventories. But the center also supplies other facilities, such as dialysis centers

and emergency clinics. In South Texas, it is unique. For most, there is no other provider.

Under the auspices of the Bexar County Medical Society, STBTC was originally located in modest downtown San Antonio accommodations. Initially, STBTC was able to draw and process an impressive 25,000 units of much-needed blood from those first generous volunteer donors. Today, the numbers have soared to 149,000 red blood cell units and 27,000 platelet units, collected during more than 150,000 donation events from selfless volunteer blood donors.

A SIMPLE CONCEPT Operationally, the STBTC’s service plan seems simple – appeal to those willing to donate, collect blood and platelets, test it, package it and deliver it. In reality, the processes are much more complicated.

Thanks to community awareness programs and extensive corporate support (see The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation’s section), volunteer donors age 16 to 70-plus are recruited from a variety of areas. Many are repeat donors and donate at mobile sites as well as several permanent “satellite” centers, making the process more accessible and convenient.

Once within a facility, an experienced and highly trained team of specialized technicians use state-of-the-art collection systems to ensure minimal discomfort and expended time. STBTC maximizes each donation event by employing new efficiency-enhancing technology and manufacturing practices.

The donors are the “heroes” and are treated as such. After collection, the blood undergoes a battery of tests (see the QualTex section) to ensure a safe and high-quality product ready for patient use. While the testing is being performed, the blood goes through a variety of manufacturing processes. These processes break down blood into specific components such as red blood cells and various plasma products, the latter including fresh-frozen plasma, cryoprecipitate and platelets. Then the blood

SERVICES SOUTH TEXAS BLOOD & TISSUE CENTER PROVIDES Physicianto-physician consulting

Patient blood management expertise

STBTC IS STRICTLY REGULATED BY: FEDERAL DRUG ADMINISTRATION AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF BLOOD BANKS AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF TISSUE BANKS

Continuing education for not only internal staff but also hospital and laboratory personnel

Specialized blood products such as fresh CMV negative platelets and red cells for babies

CLINICAL LABORATORY IMPROVEMENT AMENDMENTS INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATION FOR STANDARDIZATION EUROPEAN UNION HEALTH MINISTRIES

products are labeled and stored temporarily until a hospital order is received, at which time they are packed in validated shipping containers and transported to hospitals and ultimately patients awaiting blood’s lifesaving properties. Nothing remains on the shelf for long.

race and ethnicity age 16 (with parental consent) and above who’s in general good health (more info here southtexasblood.org/donation-process) is welcome to donate. Many lives are touched when just one person makes the decision to donate!

VOLUNTEER BLOOD DONORS People who generously volunteer to donate blood are at the heart of everything STBTC does. In 2013, the center hosted 3,907 drives and performed 85,698 procedures at various mobile sites. Most blood donors give blood more than once a year, and many of them give four or more times a year. Each blood donor provides two to three types of blood products each time they give blood.

When considering today’s South Texas Blood & Tissue Center and its beginnings, it is apparent that STBTC and the San Antonio and South Texas medical community have grown up together. As both continue their journeys toward world-class status through the adoption and creation of new and exciting technologies, they maintain their essential link to each other. Those in need can rest assured that STBTC will continue providing the services and products the public needs while further building on its proud and productive 40-year history. For additional information about the South Texas Blood & Tissue Bank, including donation criteria, visit southtexasblood.org.

Donors are anything but average in their spirit of giving, but they do fit a certain profile: the average male donor is 36 years old, and the average female donor is 34 years old. But anyone of any height,

QUALTEX LABORATORIES Ensuring patient peace of mind through testing With an ever-expanding need for rigorous testing that protects patients – coupled with new abilities thanks to technological breakthroughs – the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center in 2007 established a separate nonprofit entity devoted solely to ensuring the safety and quality of harvested materials via state-of-the-art analysis.

Enter QualTex Laboratories, a nonprofit subsidiary of BioBridge Global, which officially opened its doors on the San Antonio STBTC campus in 2007. A natural adjunct to the original center’s core business model

of blood collection had always been extensive internal product testing. Since QualTex’s inception, however, this specialized subsidiary has assumed that vital role and with it all of the responsibility for this key element. Initially testing was only for STBTC but in short order for many other clients locally, nationally and abroad as well. It’s been on a rapid path of growth ever since, which has made QualTex one of the largest nonprofit blood product screening and testing laboratories in the nation. Because of the increasing demand for enhanced, costeffective testing and rapid turnaround A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

times, a second, equally provisioned facility was opened in Norcross, Ga., in 2011.

EXCEEDING STANDARDS Responding to the intense regulatory nature of the industry, from the Federal Drug Administration as well as other national and international governing bodies, QualTex is deeply committed to maintaining the highest standards of analytic accuracy, often even exceeding those mandated by law.

Currently, it is registered and compliant with the FDA and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) and subject to the

Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA). QualTex labs also are subject to rigorous review, especially by Germany’s Federal Ministry of Health and other health administrations in the European Union due to collaboration with agencies overseas. Because of this commitment to quality assurance, recipients of QualTex testing reports can be assured of the validity of each analysis, thus ensuring a clean and appropriate product for each patient and, of equal importance, for peace of mind.

A THOROUGH ANALYSIS Working out of its two technologically advanced facilities together totaling more than 88,000 square feet of contaminantfree laboratory and research space and staffed by more than 200 highly trained staff, QualTex routinely conducts up to 12 individual tests (or assays) on each submitted sample. The result is a detailed and comprehensive analysis. These tests include basic blood typing and Rh factor determination, but others delve deeper, utilizing more sensitive screening processes seeking antibodies, antigens and viruses. All are geared to indicate the presence of such communicable illnesses as hepatitis, syphilis, HIV and many others.

Beyond the basic assays, however, a variety of other blood-directed tests are available via the Immunohematology Reference Lab (IRL). Examples can include searching for the presence of the sickle cell trait or the antibody to cytomegalovirus, which can impair treatment on the immunocompromised. And with the increase in organ transplantation and resulting compatibility issues, QualTex testing can prove to be an invaluable tool in enhancing success between donor and recipient.

Beyond blood products, QualTex also has expanded its microbiology lab operations to include contamination testing for various off-site client properties. Through detailed examination, the lab can determine whether contaminants and viral agents are present in work spaces – a very serious concern within the entire health sector.

With its expanding international client base and the resulting demand for its many (and growing) capabilities, QualTex is tasked with conducting an amazing 25 million time-sensitive tests on millions of donated samples each year. The labs proudly maintain exemplary customer-satisfaction ratings. However, paramount to supporting global public safety by offering accurate and timely testing for infectious diseases on blood, plasma and human cells, tissues and cellular and tissue-based products (HCT/Ps) to clients across the world, QualTex leaders see its primary role as simply protecting patients.

QUALTEX BY THE NUMBERS SQUARE FOOTAGE OF LABS

31,000

SA HEADQUARTERS:

57,000 ATLANTA:

NUMBER OF TESTS PER YEAR

5.5 MILLION 25 MILLION

NUMBER OF EMPLOYEES

180

2007

2014

2007

2014

224

NUMBER OF NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL AUDITS PER YEAR

MORE THAN 20

GENCURE TISSUE CENTER, CELLULAR THERAPY CENTER, CORD BLOOD CENTER—Harnessing the potential for health care advancement A natural outgrowth of blood and tissue procurement, testing and distribution was the formation in 2013 of GenCure. As science continues to uncover the incredible healing potential inherent in biomaterials, this nonprofit affiliate of STBTC is positioned to play a vital role in the field of regenerative medicine. By specializing in the state-of-the-art collection, development and processing of a diverse range of components for use in research and therapeutic treatment, GenCure is dedicated to providing groundbreaking solutions for myriad medical needs.

GenCure is structured to have three distinct operations – the Tissue Center, the Cellular Therapy Center and the Cord Blood Center.

All have different focuses but support the greater aim of enhancing patients’ lives.

Under the umbrella of BioBridge Global, they form a unique combination of resources.

“GenCure is participating in a new paradigm in human health with the potential to resolve unmet medical needs by addressing the underlying causes of diseases,” CEO Linda Myers said. “It differs from other fields of A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

medicine in the array of disciplines it brings together and in its ability to create or harness the body’s innate healing capacity.” For an overview, visit gencure.org.

THE TISSUE CENTER The Tissue Center recovers musculoskeletal tissue, tendon, skin and vascular and cardiovascular tissue and provides tissue recovery, processing and distribution of tissue allografts for hospitals and clinics. This tissue, respectfully collected from donations of the deceased, has myriad uses as graft material ranging from therapies for burn victims

to the repair of bone trauma, including spinal dysfunctions, restorative implant dentistry and a multitude of orthopedic procedures. The center processes more than 100 types of tissue components and is focused on increasing its product line for use in treatment as well as research settings.

contamination as well as the safety of the tissue, all surgical activity complies with the Current Good Tissue Practices (cGTP) set forth by the Federal Drug Administration. Because of its extensive capabilities, the Tissue Center is fully accredited by the American Association of Tissue Banks.

The Tissue Center has been an outgrowth part of the STBTC since 1994 and is considered a full-service organization. After receiving permission from the family of a deceased donor, donations are screened, tissue is surgically removed and, at its technologically specialized facilities, tissue is converted into a variety of usable forms, such as shaped segments of bone and tendon. To ensure patient and staff safety from

The Tissue Center is totally reliant on voluntary donations from many generous individuals who make their wishes known before their deaths and their surviving family members. The center is dedicated to informing the public about donation options and works with alliances within the Donate Life America速 program to help raise awareness about the need for tissue donors. As an additional service, the bereavement program holds

community events and provides educational resources for those who have suffered the loss of a loved one and are considering tissue donation.

The Tissue Center distributes more than 5,000 life-enhancing grafts to patients and providers across the globe. For more information, visit gencure.org/tissue-center.

THE CELLULAR THERAPY CENTER The Cellular Therapy Center focuses on several distinct areas, each involving the collection of key biological products for research and, more importantly, for their compatibility for use with disease-specific treatments. In the areas of dendritic cells (immune cells) and peripheral blood stem

cells, clinical researchers have discovered that collected adult donor stem cells have the ability to aid in the repair of damaged organs. Their use has shown promising results when incorporated into some of the latest treatments for cancer, arthritis, heart disease, diabetes and neurological conditions. The Cellular Therapy Center, through its recognized Apheresis Center, currently is serving as an authorized collection site supporting multiple key studies being conducted by some of the most prestigious biomedical firms in the nation.

Beyond its stem cell therapy contributions, the Cellular Therapy Center also focuses on searching for and registering marrow donors. Marrow is essential in the treatment of certain cancers, including leukemia and lymphoma, and donors must be screened and analyzed for compatibility, a function the center is uniquely suited to provide. As an adjunct to this service, it also proudly supports the Be The Match Registry®. The center coordinates donor registration and fundraising events and conducts searches that help match potential donors to recipi-

ents and guides donors through their marrow or stem cell donation process. Its efforts have resulted in a database of 219,000 potential donors located in San Antonio and South Texas, with 82 percent of donors from minority groups, which are historically underrepresented in the national registry. For more information, see gencure.org/cellular-therapy.

THE CORD BLOOD CENTER In August 2003, STBTC was awarded a grant to establish a donor umbilical cord blood bank, the Texas Cord Blood Bank (TCBB). TCBB, housed on STBTC’s San Antonio campus, is registered with Be The Match Registry®, which assists in connecting patients eligible for cord blood therapy with the help they need. Because cord blood is essential for treating patients and also is used to conduct vital research, the Cord Blood Center later was established and became STBTC’s regenerative medicine research arm for cord blood.

Cord blood is the blood that remains in the placenta after a baby is born. Because A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

cord blood has been found to be a rich source of stem cells, it can be used as an alternative to marrow to treat many lifethreatening diseases. Traditionally the placenta, cord and blood, a natural byproduct of births and a noncontroversial source of stem cells, are discarded following delivery.

By taking a few extra steps, this blood can be collected and stored in the Texas Cord Blood Bank for future use by seriously ill children and adults. Cord blood units ineligible for the public registry are used by the Cord Blood Center for research. Because these cells are normally discarded, this is the ultimate recycling project.

TCBB allows all families the opportunity to donate their infants’ cord blood free of charge to help those patients who could benefit from a marrow or stem cell transplant. Cord blood stem cells are used to treat diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma, blood disorders, aplastic anemia and deficiencies of the immune system. For a current list of participating hospitals, visit our website: www.gencure.org/cord-blood.

THE BIOBRIDGE GLOBAL EMPLOYEE Committed to giving When the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center was first established four decades ago, 12 dedicated employees constituted the entire workforce.

Today, more than 700 intensely committed, caring and skilled men and women make up BioBridge Global’s corporate family. Innumerable others willingly participate as volunteers. While the number of employees offers testament to growth and success, what’s more remarkable is that many of these individuals show the same selflessness and spirit of giving evidenced by the donors who make their work possible.

Getting and giving support Whether for a new hire or a 30year veteran, professionalism and personal growth are equally encouraged. BioBridge

Global places a premium on quality control, teamwork and personal improvement through education. Respect, integrity and excellence are the organization’s core values. Environmental awareness and the value of and need for community outreach also are characteristics the organization nurtures because it believes in its most important assets: its employees.

BioBridge Global strives to create a positive and rewarding work environment for every individual. Opportunities for continuing education are provided throughout the year, as well as seminars, webinars and distinguished speakers. Team-building outside of the work environment also is the standard, as employees have come

BioBridge Global CEO Linda Myers accepts a silver-level Healthy Workplace award from then-San Antonio Mayor Julián Castro in May 2014. BioBridge Global was recognized “for outstanding achievement in the area of employee health and wellness promotion through workplace and wellness initiatives.”

to enjoy annual family events such as holiday parties, Halloween haunted houses, picnics and ice cream socials. And because she herself is a longtime employee, it’s not unusual

BioBridge Global employees pitched in to make the annual Camp Discovery for children with cancer a success. The 2014 camp featured a fairytale theme.

BIOBRIDGE EMPLOYEES PROUDLY SUPPORT THESE ORGANIZATIONS:

United Way Adopt a Park Elf Louise Christmas Project Habitat for Humanity Haven for Hope

Light the Night Primarily Primates SAMM Ministries San Antonio Humane Society Toys for Tots

to see CEO Linda Myers participating in most events.

BioBridge Global is proud to have 16 personnel who have devoted one, two and even three decades of service to the organization.

Employees continually demonstrate their own sense of duty to those in need in San Antonio, South Texas and elsewhere. Many employees add their names to the lists of blood and marrow donors. Other external activities, events and charitable projects are supported with fundraising, labor and expertise. Major benefactors, among many others, include the United Way as well as San Antonio’s Haven for Hope and Food Bank.

Wildlife Rescue & Rehabilitation Providing back-to-school supplies for needy children

Jon

Samantha Gerald

OUR DONORS Volunteer everyday heroes give of themselves The work of BioBridge Global wouldn’t be possible without the selflessness of thousands of people who make the decision to be donors.

From those who sign up to be called upon as possible marrow matches; to those who give blood, platelets and cord blood; to families who lose loved ones and decide to help others live through donation, BioBridge Global is honored to work with these heroes who help people in the South Texas area and around the world.

GERALD PERKINS Gerald, who’s in his late 70s, is one of the top donors at the South Texas Blood & Tissue Center, where he’s donated more in 25 years than almost anyone in the center’s history. As of July 25, 2014, Gerald had given 111 gallons of lifesaving blood – and continues to roll up his sleeves twice a month. This Korean and Vietnam war veteran started giving blood in 1951 — and he’s never stopped! Countless patients are grateful for his contribution.

JON SKOW-CANALES Jon truly has a unique story: He’s been chosen as a marrow match two times for two people, once in 2012 and once in 2013. This is extremely rare. “I was really excited to be chosen twice,” Jon said. “I was glad I could help people in need.” He learned about becoming a marrow donor when the Be The Match program visited his school, the College of Health Care Professions. “They explained the need for donors, so I decided it was important for me to sign up,” said Jon, who’s now a medical assistant at Northeast Methodist Hospital.

SAMANTHA UZELL Samantha says it all herself: “I signed up in September 2013. I was on my way to class when I saw the Be The Match tent set up next to a blood drive. Because I don’t weigh enough to donate blood, and there is no weight limit to be a marrow donor, I decided to sign up in hopes of changing a life. When I was called to donate, I was surprised because it had only been five months, but I was excited because I was called to save a life! I would definitely do it again, too.”

Be The Match Registry® is a registered service mark of the nonprofit organization National Marrow Donor Program®.

A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

Deborah

She was diagnosed with breast cancer and received tissue transplants.

Aida

This 6-year-old with acute lymphoblastic leukemia underwent blood transfusions and chemotherapy.

Noah

This 4-year-old with leukemia received platelets and red blood cells and is scheduled for a cord blood transplant.

OUR PATIENTS The heart of what we do Everything BioBridge Global employees do every day has one goal: to help patients in the communities we serve. Whether they require blood transfusions, marrow transplants or donated tissue, BioBridge Global stands ready to provide what patients need and to conduct research to find even more solutions. The organization is proud to have these patients be the beneficiaries of its efforts.

DEBORAH COLLINS Deborah works at the San Antonio Eye Bank, asking grieving families to generously donate their loved ones’ corneas. Until last year, she never thought she’d be on the other side. Deborah was diagnosed with breast cancer in April 2013. She began treatment, which included tissue transplants onto her pectoral muscles. Deborah realized she was on the receiving end of donation. “After my surgery, donation took on a whole different color.” Deborah found out that she

had received tissue from not one but two donors. She sent letters of thanks to the families who agreed to donation. “Not a day goes by that I don’t think of those generous families.”

AIDA CORDEAU Aida was diagnosed late in 2013 with acute lymphoblastic leukemia.

The 6-year-old, who loves dancing and playing with dolls, underwent blood transfusions and chemotherapy. Her mom says she’s currently doing well on her treatment plan and looking forward to first grade.

Aida and multitudes of patients like her are the beneficiaries of our blood donors’ generosity.

NOAH SANCHEZ Noah was diagnosed at the age of 4 with leukemia. In his battle with the disease, Noah has received platelets and red blood cells. He was scheduled to undergo a cord blood transplant in August, and his family is hopeful the treatment will help him into remission. When women decide to donate the cord blood of their newborns, they’re helping families like Noah’s keep hope alive.

Kim and Dr. Michael Fischer, 2014 Red and White Ball co-chairs.

Rose Marie and Emerson “Buddy” Banack, Jr. 2014 Foundation chairmen.

The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation: Supporting the mission of BioBridge Global The business of BioBridge Global, a nonprofit, and that of its related subsidiaries has always been reliant on the generosity of others — primarily for the selfless donation of blood and tissue products but also for financial support. Quite frankly, without this support, the life-giving work this entity is pledged to fulfill wouldn’t be possible. Thankfully, individuals, groups, and companies continue to be an important part of our mission.

To help facilitate this patronage, The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation was established in 2002. The foundation advocates increasing community awareness and developing financial and other resources that support the work of BioBridge Global and its related nonprofit entities. Since its inception, the foundation has raised more than $9,400,000, all going toward research, educational programs and collection, with special emphasis on the Texas Cord Blood Bank.

The foundation’s marquee fundraising event is the Red and White

Ball, which takes place every fall. This festive evening has a serious message, to which our generous contributors earnestly respond: Enable BioBridge Global to continue working to bring lifesaving treatments to those in need by opening their hearts and giving of themselves.

The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation is directed by a committed board of volunteers comprising some of South Texas’ most influential and respected community leaders. The invaluable donation of their time and talents helps guide the foundation in raising the funds integral to the work of saving lives.

There are many ways to support the programs and services provided by BioBridge Global and its subsidiaries. For more details, please contact the Foundation Development Department staff at (210) 249-4498 or email mary.dial@bloodntissue.org. For additional information on The Blood & Tissue Center Foundation, visit bloodntissuefoundation.org.

A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

Allison and Danny Kustoff (left) and Laurie and Michael Kaplan, Foundation co-chairs elect 2015.

Beverly and Dr. Fernando A. Guerra, 2014 Red and White Ball co-chairs.

Dr. Kelley and Pat Frost are the 2014 Red and White Ball Chairman’s Award recipients.

BioBridge Global CEO Linda Myers (left) and South Texas Blood & Tissue Center COO and Foundation Executive Director Elizabeth Waltman at the 2013 Red and White Ball.

The Fresh New Face of

Fredericksburg

BY JANIS TURK

But don’t forget the old attractions

Above, Musician at Oktoberfest.

Photo by Steve Rawls, Fredericksburg CVB. Far left, weather-worn Gillespie County airplane hangar, home to Guten Co. Left, the Guten Co. girls: Sarah Sauer and Molly Rodgers.

Photos by Janis Turk

Guten Co. Friends since they were toddlers in Fredericksburg, the two

porcelain objects and textiles. Today Guten Co. (meaning “Good

twenty-something university graduates, who majored in art,

Company”) is an online store, but one day it may join Fredericks-

bought a broken-down antique Early Series Chandler & Price

burg’s other shops on Main Street.

platen printing press last January. Together with the help of local machinists, woodworkers and electricians, they began the painstaking process of restoring it. Working late into the night in a weather-worn Gillespie County airplane hangar for four

Take a good look around A recent visit introduced me to several other exciting new Fredericksburg businesses and reminded me why I love my old favorites.

months, the pair gave new life to the old press that probably After checking into a three-bedroom log cabin with my family at Sethadn’t run during their lifetime. When the press was ready for tler’s Crossing, an idyllic rural 25-acre property containing seven perits first run on its centennial birthday, Sauer and Rodgers fectly appointed guest cottages, I asked owners David and Melissa printed new business cards, launching Guten Co., FredericksEstes what’s new in town. Then I met a local friend for lunch at the burg’s newest business.

Farm Haus Bistro at the Fredericksburg Herb Farm, and she drew me a map of other new must-stop spots.

More than a print shop, Guten Co. is a lifestyle business and brand offering functional pieces of art in attractive everyday

Vaudeville, located in the former Homestead & Friends store, is more

forms — including hand-printed fine papers and handmade

than just another pretty store. Vaudeville offers a design-centric shop

84 | sawoman.com

on the first floor, an art gallery on the second; a French bistro, an eclectic gour-

Beautifully appointed cottage at Settler’s Crossing.

Photo by Janis Turk.

met market and wine cellar in its basement and a fine-dining eatery “Supper Club” in its courtyard and in the wings of the historic building that houses it. www.Vaudeville-Living.com.

Carol Hicks Bolton Gallery (formerly Homestead & Friends): Antiques and clever new objects fill this eclectic shop in an enormous space on Lincoln Street. From vintage textiles to French and European antiques, taxidermy animals to pottery, garden items and art from 15 different countries, this funky shop is intriguing. www.carolhicksbolton.com.

Art is a big part of Fredericksburg life. In fact, G. Harvey, one of the world’s most famous Western art painters, makes his home in Fredericksburg and exhibits his original works at the Whistle Pik Gallery on Main Street. Numerous other important art galleries also draw visitors, including InSight Gallery on West Main, which features the works of some of the finest painters and sculptors working in landscape, figurative, impressionistic, still life, wild life and Western genres at www.insightgallery.com. Art lovers should plan their visit around the First Friday Art Walk events held each month when galleries stay open late.

september/october 2014 | 85

Fredericksburg

Otto’s German bistro

Yes, it’s a German bistro, but it also tips its hat to the hip American gastro-pub scene. Located across Austin Street from the George H. W. Bush Gallery of the National Museum of the Pacific War (www.pacificwarmuseum. org), which honors local hero Adm. Chester Nimitz among others, Otto’s is one of the best new places to eat. Featuring “contemporary German cuisine,” outdoor dining and mod décor, Otto’s is a hit with locals and tourists alike. www.Ottosfbg.com.

An old favorite contemporary restaurant is August E’s, offering “Nouveau Texas Cuisine” in a bright modern art-filled space with Kobe beef-

bar and the old-fashioned soda fountain/ breakfast diner.

steaks and sushi on the menu. Stop in on “Thai Tuesdays” for a spe-

Women love the crisp bedding and the sophisticated décor. On

cial Thai menu at night. www.august-es.com.

weekends, guests bring their cocktails to the runway, where they can sit in rocking chairs and watch airplanes take off and land.

Enjoy wines from around the world — though not Texas, oddly

Also on weekends, the Hangar Hotel has one of the best piano

enough — at Lincoln Street Wine Market, a bar and bistro with an

bars in town.

outdoor courtyard. www.lincolnst.com.

Chocolat is an old favorite in a new space. This “quintessential chocolate company” with Old World techniques for creating liquor-filled chocolates moved to a new location on Main Street a

New

New, not-to-miss B&Bs near town include the Sugarberry Inn (www.SugarberryInn.com), and the Wine Country Cottages (www.allseasonsfredericks-burg.com/wine). We also like the Trois Estate at Enchanted Rock outside of town.

couple of years ago. www.chocolat-tx.us.

Old meets new Sweet dreams

While new businesses are thriving, Fredericksburg’s old places are

There are hundreds of popular German-style “Sunday haus” guest

busy too. Dozens of wineries and tasting rooms line Highway 290;

houses and B&Bs in town, but I love Settlers Crossing best. Each

Wildseed Farms still blooms with business; Stonewall peaches are

cottage features antiques, wood-burning fireplaces, comfortable

sold on the roadside; gleaming galleries, old-school hardware

beds, full kitchens, spacious bathrooms, broad porches and patios,

shops, German biergartens and small-town bakeries still draw

rocking chairs and shady arbors. Sheep and donkeys graze in the

happy visitors. Old-timers say the old ways are the best — and

meadows, honeybees buzz through garden vines, and the owners’

that’s still true. But give Fredericksburg’s newest spots a chance,

daughter rides bareback on her pony. With wineries and Lucken-

and you’ll be in good company.

bach nearby, Settlers is a serene retreat. www.settlerscrossing.com.

The Fredericksburg Herb Farm is another enchanting property just four blocks from Main Street.

Above: Diner at the Hangar Hotel, photo by Janis Turk.

New buildings and traditional Sunday haus charm come together in its charming cottages, where guests relax in a tranquil gar-

Left: Oktoberfest attendees, photo by Steve Rawls, Fredericksburg CVB.

den environment. The farm also is home to the pampering of Nature’s Spa, a 5,000square-foot destination spa with multiple treatment rooms. After your massage, dine at the Farm Haus Bistro, and stop by the Poet's Haus Gift Shop, offering garden and gift items, candles, lotions, soaps and many other items created on site. Guests enjoy strolling through the fragrant gardens where the chef grows fresh ingredients. www.fredericksburgherbfarm.com.

The Hangar Hotel near the Gillespie County

Oktoberfest is near Fredericksburg celebrates its German her-

airstrip isn’t new, but it’s simultaneously modern and dis-

itage at Oktoberfest, this year occurring

tinctively classic. Men especially love the sleek dark wood

Oct. 3-5. Come for the best German oompah music, food, drink and family fun.

86 | sawoman.com

W

GUYS TO KNOW

By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF

Q. What attracted you to this job?

I had been to Fiesta in 2009 while I was in my

JOHN MELLEKY CEO, Fiesta San Antonio Commission San Antonians love Fiesta, but they may not realize how much planning, fundraising and hard work it takes to make the annual fest a fun and successful celebration for all who participate. While the individual events are run by various nonprofit organizations – currently about 100 – it has been the job of the Fiesta San Antonio Commission to oversee, coordinate and promote the entire festival since 1959.

Itself a self-supported nonprofit, the Commission is a membership-based entity, governed by a volunteer board. It currently has 1,200 members, including all the Participating Member Organizations or PMOs (the nonprofits that run the events) plus businesses and individuals who choose to become members.

John Melleky, CFRE, has been the Commission’s CEO since January 2012. Prior to moving to San Antonio, he served as executive director of the Society of Cardiovascular Anesthesiologists Foundation in Richmond, Va. He also worked for the event-production firm Veronica Whitehead & Co. setting up conferences for the Fortune 500 Forum, Time Warner and others. As both professional and volunteer, Melleky has devoted his career to event planning, fundraising and organizational management. He loves Fiesta and is currently leading the way to take our Fiesta “to the next level.”

previous position as head of the Society of Cardio-

Photography JANET ROGERS

That’s the human face of Fiesta. We want to tell that story here in San Antonio but then also regionally, nationally and internationally.

vascular Anesthesiologists Foundation. We were

The third area is to strengthen the relationship

here for our annual conference. I knew about Fi-

between the participating nonprofits and the Com-

esta from the International Festival and Events As-

mission. We are here as a resource center for those

sociation (IFEA) and decided to stay longer to go

nonprofits. We want to be able to provide benefits

to some of the events. Then a few years later, (the

to them. For instance, we have started an advertis-

Commission) did a national search for this posi-

ing co-op for them. They can each put in just a little

tion. What interested me was that it combined all

bit of money, and with all that money combined we

the areas that I have been working on: association

can do media buying for all the events. We’ll also

management, memberships, fundraising and cor-

do sponsorship co-ops through which we could

porate sponsorships and events. I thought it would

bring our sponsors (to partially sponsor individual

be a great opportunity to work for one of the

events.) This year we provided $68,000 in this type

largest festivals in the country.

of grants to participating nonprofits. The fourth area of our plan is to improve community outreach

Q. What is it about Fiesta San Antonio that distinguishes it from other popular fests?

What makes it unique is that over 100 non-

— how do we get the millennials involved as volunteers, for instance, and developing youth programs.

Finally, the fifth part is to strengthen our financial position.

profit organizations run events over a period of 11 days all over the city and keep all the proceeds from those events. They pay a small fee to the Commission, but they keep all the rest. Then the

Q. The plan includes a new entity, the Fiesta Commission Charitable Corporation. What is its role?

money goes back into the community through

The Commission is a 501(c)(4) organization.

their own programs (scholarships, historic preser-

So when people donate money to the Commis-

vation, social services, etc.) It’s the only festival

sion, it’s not tax deductible. The Charitable Cor-

like it in the world.

poration is the 501(c)(3) side of the organization, so it’s another avenue to create a revenue stream.

Q. If the participating nonprofits keep most of the proceeds, what are the Commission’s sources of income?

example, we pay for the barricades for the street

We have several: membership, corporate spon-

parades. That is essentially a public safety pro-

sorships, the Fiesta San Antonio store and Fiesta

gram. We fund the Miss Fiesta program, which is

With that in mind, we are now looking at what we have been funding that’s charitable in nature. For

Carnival, and we sell licenses to 90 nonprofits

now an internship, as part of the Charitable Cor-

(other than PMOs) that sell street chairs for the pa-

poration. And there are other programs in health

rades. We give away about 50 percent of what we

and wellness, environment and culture and his-

raise. We provide $150,000 to some of the PMOs

tory that fall under the charitable umbrella.

to help them run their events. In addition, we provide another $250,000 in goods and services to two street parades. Then we provide another

Q. Why did you take over the Miss Fiesta program?

$500,000 worth of tickets to street chair organi-

The nonprofit that was doing it wasn’t sure it

zations (churches, Boy Scout troops and civic

wanted to continue. Miss Fiesta is such an iconic

groups) to sell and make money. When you add all

part of the celebration that we looked into what

of that up, it’s almost $1 million. So we are actually

we could do to take it over. Now, she is an intern

operating very leanly.

with the Commission who is chosen on the basis of a project proposal she submits dealing with one

Q. You have created a strategic plan for the future to take Fiesta to the next level. Could you tell us about that?

The strategic plan was adopted in the fall of 2012, and we have just completed the first year of

of the charitable areas we mentioned.

Q. It’s gratifying to learn that no alcohol-related deaths occurred during Fiesta in the past few years.

implementation. What we want to do is to grow

That’s one of our charitable programs as well;

Fiesta. There are five key areas. First we want to

it’s called Fiesta Safe Rides. We work with Silver

create a strategic culture for the organization. We

Eagle Distributors, TxDOT, Yellow Cab, the city po-

looked at our bylaws’ efficiency, making sure we

lice and others to provide free $20 vouchers for

are up on the current trends in nonprofits through-

cab rides either to or from Fiesta events.

out the United States. The second goal is to tell the Fiesta story. With 100 nonprofits, there are so many stories of people who benefit from Fiesta.

88 | sawoman.com

Mr. Melleky’s comments have been slightly edited for reasons of space and clarity.

2015 Fiesta® will run April 16 – 26

Q. What Fiesta events do you personally attend?

“This year I went to 104 out of 108 events.” (laughs)

september/october 2014 | 89

90 | sawoman.com

By BONNY OSTERHAGE

MOMMY MATTERS

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Kids & “Bad” Words Do you give a D@#!?

There is a scene in one of my favorite holiday movies, A Christmas

many of them learned it?

Story, where Ralphie utters “the queen mother of dirty words” and gets

“I feel like, for primary-aged children, they use bad language be-

his mouth washed out with soap. While the scene is hilarious, the situ-

cause it has been modeled for them,” says child development specialist

ation isn’t quite as funny when it happens in your own home.

and former primary school counselor Lindsey Harvey.

Fortunately, neither of my middle school-aged boys has (to my

She explains that if the kids hear their parents using profanity

knowledge) said “the big one,” but they have recently begun experi-

among friends and it elicits a laugh, then the kids learn that the word

menting with what I call the “borderline” words. You know the ones I

is “funny” and repeat it in the hopes of getting the same response.

mean. In the black and white world of profanity, they are the gray area.

“They don’t understand that it is a ‘bad’ word,” she explains.

The ones that, while they might not be punishable by soap in the mouth, are surely worthy of what my boys call “the look.”

“That sucks,” “pissed off,” and “freakin’” are a few of the terms that have been tried on for size in my home, along with innocuous but still

As children get older, proper modeling becomes even more important. Why? Because now the child recognizes that these words are “bad,” and if they are part of the parents’ vocabulary, then it becomes next to impossible to enforce consequences for using them.

slightly offensive slang for body parts. So where and when do you draw the line? For mom Karen Zander, the rules are hard and fast.

“If these words are the common language in the home, then how

“There are no ‘gray’ words in our house,” she says firmly. “If you

can a teen be punished when the standard is so different for them?”

wouldn’t use the word in conversation with your grandparents, then

questions Harvey. “If the parent expects the child to change, then the

it’s not part of our family’s vocabulary.”

parent must be willing to change too.”

Other moms are a little more relaxed in their approach. “My 7-yearold son has just started to test it out a little,” says Jessica Baker. “I’ve

“But I never swear in front of my children,” is a common refrain from

told him that things kids say to each other are not always things that

many parents. Well, good for you! But do you let them watch televi-

they should say to adults. I will probably take the same stance with true

sion? PG-13 movies? Listen to the radio?

curse words in that they are a part of life, but not in front of your mom.”

“What’s OK to air on television and other media is so much different today than it was when we were kids,” says Chris Bertha, assistant

Why they do it The reason children use profanity or offensive language isn’t that different from the reasons why adults do it. In fact, where do you think

head of school at St. Luke’s Episcopal School. “Today’s kids are exposed to so many different things, and they begin to mimic what they hear to try and see what fits them.” september/october 2014 | 91

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MOMMY MATTERS And let’s not forget peer pressure. You can limit what your children are exposed to, you can make sure that every word that comes out of your own mouth is pure, but you can’t be with them every second. They are going to hear things from

ORED CENS

and repeat things to one another in an effort to be cool and fit in. Furthermore, the words that might have resulted in a phone call to mom when we were in school are often overlooked in today’s classrooms as simply part of the teen lexicon.

“We don’t have a list of acceptable and unacceptable words,” explains Bertha. “It really depends on context, time and place.” Like many private schools, however, St. Luke’s has a code of conduct to which students are expected to adhere. The students sign a pledge to be courteous and cooperative at all times, and that encompasses their interactions with faculty, staff and one another. Depending on the circumstances or the word used, im-

NO GRAY AREA - If you wouldn’t use the word in conversation with your grandparents, then it’s not appropriate.

proper language could be considered a violation of that pledge and result in appropriate action.

How to handle it So what is appropriate action? When it comes to offensive language, it can be largely dependent upon age, circumstance, place and, of course, the word itself. For example, a group of students talking in the hallway about being “pissed off” is different from a student telling a teacher or his mother the same thing.

Bertha says that if a student is overheard using offensive language in the hallways among his peers, the hope is that a nearby adult will address it. Depending on the word and the context, addressing it could include anything from a reprimand to a phone call to the parents to a form of detention.

Christi Wilbur, director of pupil personnel services with North East ISD, says that the approach to bad language when it is used in elementary school is to work with the child to teach him that the word is not appropriate and to find out if there is an underlying cause for the behavior. At the secondary level the student should know which words are not acceptable, and again the teachers, counselors and administrators will attempt to work with the child and the parent or guardian to address the behavior. In both cases, continuous use of offensive language can carry a punishment ranging from a warning to detention, suspension, or in the worst cases, placement at the alternative school.

“North East ISD does not approve of bad language in schools, and we do not ignore the language,” says Wilbur. “Rather, we try to address it an early age.”

When the language is happening at home rather than at school, there are many ways to handle it. First, try talking with your child about her feelings and come up with alternative ways of expressing them. “I am always reminding my children about self-respect, respecting their elders and having their intelligence speak through their vocabulary,” says Dolores Valles, mom of a 17- and a 10-year-old.

Mom of four Sarah Bowland concurs: “I tell my children that there are much more effective words to use to get their point across.” If the bad language continues, consequences are in order and can include writing a letter of apology or their losing age-appropriate privileges.

As Ralphie points out in A Christmas Story, his father “worked in profanity the way other artists might work in oils or clay.” The bottom line? Our children hang on our every word, whether we realize it or not. Make sure they are good ones!

92 | sawoman.com

september/october 2014 | 93

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HIGHER EDUCATION

By MARY LANDON DARDEN

college Higher education is a maze without a map. Many thousands of prospective college students will be struggling to navigate that maze next spring.

With at least 52 institutions of higher education in San Antonio and more than 4,000 in the United States, it can be daunting, expensive and — at times — even risky.

Here are a few pointers that can help you make the best possible decision. Ask yourself these questions: What is my life’s dream?

What vocation would be the best fit for my gifts, talents and what I love to do?

Do I need to work full time while I am attending college?

states may require that you have a de-

If you are among the increasing number

gree from an accredited institution to be

If you know with certainty what you

of prospective students who must work

eligible for the licensing exam. Likewise,

would like to do professionally when you

full time while attending college, you

in the case of transfer credits or applying

complete your degree, you may delimit

may want to consider colleges that offer

to graduate school, credits you earn at

your college search with that criterion. If

night classes. There are several colleges

nonaccredited

you are not quite sure, you may want to

that offer not only evening classes, but

transfer to accredited schools. While this

select a college that will allow you some

programs where you take class one night

is not the rule, it is up to prospective stu-

flexibility to make a disciplined move or

per week for three or four hours and take

dents to do their homework to be sure

one course at a time in an accelerated

they are maximizing their options and

format so that you may potentially finish

potential outcomes.

to transfer elsewhere.

Am I place- or regionbound?

in approximately the same time as tradi-

If so, search for colleges that are within

grams will often require 15 to 20 hours

a range that is feasible for you to attend.

per week of independent study, and it

institutions

may

not

with computer use — then you may want

Is the college I am considering accredited?

What is the cost of my degree? Are there any hidden fees? What is the tuition per credit hour?

How about activities, parking and miscellaneous costs? What is the cost of books?

to consider one of the many online op-

Accreditation ensures a certain level of

It is important to look at the entire cost

tions for college. Many students now

quality for the education you receive.

of your education. When comparing

complete courses in a combination of in-

Employers may value employees with

schools, you may find that one institu-

class and online formats, and since most

degrees from accredited institutions

tion has a lower tuition rate, but the ac-

universities are offering or developing

over non-accredited programs. Addition-

tivities fees and added expenses make

online options, this can be a convenient

ally, if you plan to pursue a career that

the total cost of education higher than

requires a license or certification, certain

another school with higher tuition but

tional programs. However, these pro-

If you are not within driving range of a

will be important to design a good time-

college, do not have a car, or prefer not

management plan.

to attend in person and you are highly capable with technology — particularly

way to gain maximum flexibility.

94 | sawoman.com

built-in fees. Students are often surprised by supplemental fees and need to be informed and prepared. Also, think about the cost of where you will live and all of the associated costs. Money challenges are one of the most common reasons that students do not complete a degree. Work this out ahead of time. Be sure to apply for

Federal

Financial

Aid

(FAFSA)

whether you plan to use it or not. You do not have to accept money that is granted; however, once you have been approved, it makes the process simpler if you change your mind or need financial assistance later. Remember that you must apply for financial aid for each academic year.

What are the entrance requirements?

Find out if standardized testing is required and, if so, what the score expectations are.

Many schools still require a specific score on the SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT and/or other tests before admitting students. Grade point average in either high school or college is another factor. Additional factors may also play a part, such as an entrance essay, athletic participation and extracurricular activities. It is helpful to be aware of these factors early in the process to help you strategically plan to maximize your options.

What are the financial aid, scholarship, grant or loan opportunities for attending a particular college?

What are the counseling and advising options at the schools on my short list of colleges?

Some of this information can be acquired through research. Some colleges have excellent counseling and advising programs, and some do not. Having good advising can save you both time and money — sometimes substantially. When researching schools, inquire about working with an admissions or support counselor who can coach you through the process. Accumulating credits doesn’t guarantee a degree. You need to earn the right credits according to the institution’s degree plan, and counselors can help guide you to doing it right. Additionally, they can inform you of grant or scholarship opportunities that may be available to you.

september/october 2014 | 95

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HIGHER EDUCATION ability of this kind of help varies from university to university.

gram that you do not feel is a fit?

• Are all of your questions being answered, and are the admissions counselors in tune

Is the institution a fit?

What kind of support system do colleges have to help ensure student success?

with your wants and needs?

Visit the college, talk to students

• Is anyone pressuring you or using fear tac-

and staff, see classrooms and meet

tics to move you to enroll on the spot?

professors. Then ask yourself if you

• Is there an option to back out or change

feel that it is a fit for you. Every col-

your mind? There should be.

lege has its own — and distinct —

• Be leery of someone telling you things

personality.

like “this offer is good today only.”

Are there any red flags or warning signs?

a college. It can be helpful to find some-

BEWARE AND BE AWARE OF THE FOLLOWING:

There is so much to consider in selecting

• The school guaran-

one who is a credentialed expert in higher

tees you a job upon

education and pick their brain. Once you

graduation — this is, at

have completed your homework, go for it!

the very least, unethi-

Colleges offer a broad array of options to

cal. It is appropriate to talk about the ca-

Mary Landon Darden holds a doctorate in

support and assist students in their edu-

reer demand in a particular field (however,

higher education administration, is the au-

cation success. Tutoring opportunities,

it is good to check it out and see if the in-

thor of Beyond 2020: Envisioning the Fu-

skill-building workshops, mentoring and

formation given is accurate for where you

ture of Universities in America, published

more are often available for free or at a

plan to locate), but saying you will have a

by the American Council on Education, and

low cost to students. Inquire about what

job upon graduation is a red flag.

is the dean of Concordia University Texas

is available. Again, the quality and avail-

• Is someone pushing you to go to a pro-

San Antonio Center.

96 | sawoman.com

september/october 2014 | 97

W According to Linda

What’s Relevant in San Antonio

by LINDA ELLIOTT

If I could do it over again, I would live minimally.

The urban renewal phenomenon is really intriguing to me.

It’s all about sizing down to what we need rather than what we think we need because of a mindset that started when we were mere children.

Here are some of the things I would (will) do:

Exist with only two toothbrushes - an electric and a manual — I challenge you to count the number you have in that bathroom drawer that seems to collect “stuff.” I took on the challenge myself. I had six. No way was I going to use them. Now they are gone!

Get rid of all the dishes that will never be used — If I’m living

Live from one closet rather than three — Most women, and perhaps some men, will agree that changing closets out every season is a pain in the neck. We’re usually transferring clothes back and forth, half of which we don’t wear anymore. Of course, “we don’t have a thing to wear” multiple times a year, so what do we do? Go and buy more clothes to add to our already over-filled closets. Same goes for shoes. Half the shoes I have lined up in my closet I never wear, and I’ve been on a shoe-buying spree because I think I need more. There’s no place to put them!

minimally, I will definitely not be entertaining as many as 24 people at any one time. So why must I have two 12-place settings of dishes, multiple sets of flatware and glasses/cups galore? If I should have more than six people over, which would be doubtful, paper and plastic work nicely.

Trash everything in cabinets and drawers that I don’t use — Most of us have bottles and cans that get pushed to the back of the shelf and nestle there forever. They’ll never be used; some may even be toxic they’re so old.

Do you get the picture? The list can go on

I sought statistics from my friend Guyla

The neighborhood is fast becoming an arts

and on. I live in a nice roomy condo, but I bet I

Sineni of United Commercial Realty. She bro-

mecca. Several of our best museums are within a stone’s throw of this area. I love the

could live somewhere that has half the square

kers the retail property at The Pearl. I’ll share a

footage. If I could do it over again, I would se-

few stats I find quite interesting. There are four

fact that one can enjoy the cultural arts so

riously consider moving to an apartment lo-

major apartment projects within a half-mile ra-

conveniently. I recently went to an outdoor

cated at or around The Pearl.

dius of The Pearl:

French theater presentation at San Antonio

A little history first. In 2004 Mark Wittig

Museum of Art. Sitting under the stars, eating

asked me if I would consider moving my office

popcorn and watching French movies — a

The Pearl Residential property – 293 units

perfect way to escape.

into his building on Broadway at Josephine.

My initial reaction was “no,” as I really consid-

1221 Broadway – 243 units

that area has been totally revitalized and is now

The Mosaic – 115 units

area where I woiuld most definitely consider living. I would be a part of that society by get-

what I consider the “trendy” part of town. In

ting involved in what’s happening. I would

my opinion, it really started with the Silver Ventures’ multi-use development of Pearl Brewery.

So, after all my verbosity, exactly where am I going? If I could do it over again, this is the

ered that part of town a bit seedy. In 10 years,

1800 Broadway – 200 units

spend more time at the Local Coffee enjoying the activity that was happening around me. I

I recall taking a tour of the brewery in the very beginning and hearing all about the plans. The

That equals 851 residential units! And I un-

would eat and shop within the confines of my

vision shared with me was far beyond my com-

derstand they are going fast. I actually looked

community. I would spend more time in the

prehension. The place was atrocious. I’ve

at one and was extremely impressed. Of course,

outdoors among people rather than retreating

watched the transformation of an ugly duck-

most of what I have would not fit, so I would

to my private air-conditioned sanctum. I would

ling into a beautiful swan, which many will

have to downsize dramatically. Is that so bad?

love life and people. I would be totally fulfilled

agree is an amazing landmark in San Antonio.

Friend Barbara Banker and I ventured

Working in the neighborhood has been a

down to the The Pearl’s Farmers Market one

Let me end by saying I’ve focused on The

reawakening experience. New office buildings

recent Saturday morning. It was a memorable

Pearl area because it is what I know and have

have been built, the famous ButterKrust Bak-

experience! Thousands of people (and dogs)

come to love. There are many other renewal

ery building has become an upscale office

were meandering and just living the life. The

development projects taking place in San An-

building. The Children’s Museum is relocating

ambiance was unstressed, healthful and

tonio and elsewhere. Downtown San Antonio

from downtown to the neighborhood. But

friendly. Strangers visited with strangers. Peo-

is also becoming a really popular area for peo-

most appealing to me in my living minimally

ple languished in the present and didn’t fret

ple who are downsizing. Suburban life is won-

dream is the number of housing opportunities

about the past or the future. It was, simply put,

derful, but urban life is rapidly becoming the

in the area. It’s mind-boggling!

a pure unadulterated experience.

“in” way to live!

98 | sawoman.com

as a human being.

Board of Directors Steven Krauskopf, Board Chair Principal, KFW Engineers & Surveying Brenda Baldwin Senior Manager, Capital Group Ed Belmares Assistant City Manager, City of San Antonio Dan Decker Park President, Sea World of San Antonio Patrick Eurek EVP & COO, RiverRock Energy, LLC

Business, Babies and the Bottom Line As a business owner, father and community advocate, I am proud to partner with March of Dimes and to serve as the Chairman of the Board. With more than 76 years of proven success in research, programs, education and advocacy, March of Dimes continues to lead the way to a

Patrina L Fowler COO, Community First Health Plans

healthier future for all babies.

Christie Goodman Communications Manager, Intercultural Development Research Association

cost of premature birth to businesses, and the results are astonishing. The impact that this health

Fernando Guerra, MD Pediatrician and Public Health Consultant

a company’s bottom line was eye-opening. You can learn more about these costs and how to

Mike Koroscik, MHA CEO, Institute for Women’s Health

Through a Truven Health Analytics study, March of Dimes has taken a precise look at the crisis has on families seems to be common knowledge, but seeing the high health care costs to help in the coming pages.

Since 2003, March of Dimes has been fighting the war against premature birth, and progress has been made, but the need is still urgent. The U.S. has the highest preterm birth

Tammy McQueen Mobilization Senior Manager, Accenture Martha Martinez Clinical Assistant Professor UTHSCSA School of Nursing John O’Keefe Director of Fixed Operations Ken Batchelor Cadillac Greg Seiler CEO, Metropolitan Methodist Hospital

rate of any industrialized country. It is time to end premature birth and to do that, a great scientific endeavor is needed. March of Dimes is leading the way by establishing transdisciplinary research centers across the nation. They’re partnering with academic institutions to use a team science approach to understanding and ultimately conquering prematurity. With this great effort, I am positive that March of Dimes will exceed the 2020 goal of reducing the preterm birth rate from 12.4 percent to 9.6 percent!

But we aren’t just making a difference in the United States, we’re making a difference right here in San Antonio. A grant valued at $400,000 has been given to a researcher at UT Health

David Webb, PhD Financial Adviser, Eagle Strategies LLC

Science Center to study preterm labor prevention. Numerous grant awards have been given to

Brandey Wimberley-Orsag Senior Vice President /Commercial Lending Officer, Jefferson Bank

with Valero Energy Foundation to fund three NICU Family Support© programs in local hospitals.

local community partners such as the Children’s Shelter and Alpha Home and we have partnered Accomplishing all of these results-driven programs requires funding, and that’s where you can help. In this special insert, you can read about how to get involved. Whether you want to

Staff KJ Feder Division Executive Director Ester Flores Director of Program Services

give of your time, your talent or your treasure, please join us in giving every baby a healthy start in life. I hope you’ll enjoy learning about our exciting Signature Chefs Auction chaired by Dr. Sanjie Garza-Cox of Children’s Hospital and Erica Castro. It’s a unique dining experience where you get to meet some of San Antonio’s top chefs and bid on exclusive packages. You can also learn how to get involved in March for Babies, the nation’s first walking event of its kind that started right here in San Antonio in 1970! Please help us celebrate our top fundraising teams as

Catherine Alvarado Community Director, Signature Chefs Kim Gardner Community Director, March for Babies Erin McGarvey Community Director, Communications

we announce the 2014 Top Corporate and Family Teams, Top Walkers and the winners of the NEISD Change Challenge.

From fundraising to education and partnership to advocacy, there’s a way for everyone to help out, and I urge you to join me in making babies your business and helping March of Dimes.

Respectfully,

San Antonio Division 7410 Blanco Rd, Suite 400 San Antonio, TX 78216 Office (210) 696-1030 Fax (210) 694-0577 www.marchofdimes.com/texas Follow us on twitter: http://twitter.com/MOD_SA

Steven Krauskopf Principal, KFW Engineers & Surveying Chairman of the Board, March of Dimes San Antonio

Like us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/MOD.SA

5

Business, Babies and the Bottom Line: The Financial Impact of Prematurity on Business

Nearly half a million babies will be born too soon in our country this year. The emotional impact of premature birth on families is extraordinary, and the cost to businesses is exorbitant.

With one in eight babies born prematurely in San Antonio every year, far higher than the national average for preterm birth, there is much we can do to impact the health of our workforce and your company’s bottom line.

Prematurity places a multibillion-dollar burden on business, with employers billed more than $12 billion annually in excess health care costs. Individual companies lose thousands of dollars in absenteeism and lost productivity for families affected by preterm birth. Prematurity has a material impact on your bottom line:

Employers pay 12 times as much in health care costs for premature/low birth weight babies as for babies born without complications.

Each premature/low birth weight baby costs employers an additional $50,000 in newborn health care costs alone.

Nationally, one in nine babies will be born preterm. The United States has the worst rate of premature birth of any developed country.

We need the help of business leaders in our community to impact premature birth, and here are some steps you can take to bring solutions to your business: Calculate the cost by taking a good look at your claims data to

1

determine how much premature birth costs your business each

4

Healthy Babies, Healthy Business: a complimentary worksite wellness program that provides information to employees on

preconception, prenatal, postnatal and infant care. Go to mar-

year.

chofdimes.com/hbhb for more information.

2

Ask your HR or benefits team to recommend workforce wellness approaches and programs that can help prevent premature

births such as exercise, weight management, smoking cessation, or

5

Partner with the March of Dimes. There are many ways to connect with us, including March of Dimes Events & Fundraisers.

Sponsor, volunteer or participate in March for Babies, Signature

parent education.

Chefs Auction or various other special events. Call us at 210-696-

3

Review your company health insurance plan to see if it’s truly

1030 or visit www.facebook.com/MOD.SA

promoting healthy pregnancies and helping to prevent

preterm birth. Does it cover all prenatal and postpartum visits, smoking cessation, and/or progesterone treatment for women at high risk of preterm birth? Does it actively discourage doctors and women from having early elective deliveries (before 39 weeks) without medical reasons)?

6

Prematurity Awareness Month: Held in November, this awareness campaign focuses the nation's attention on the impact pre-

mature birth has on babies and families and on opportunities for prevention. Local businesses can get involved by engaging employees and the local business community through creative activities and events. World Prematurity Day is November 17.

6

A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

7

AMAZING THINGS HAPPEN WHEN YOU GIVE YOUR SIGNATURE

October 24 | Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa At the March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction, signatures make

2014 Lead Signature Chef Heather Nañez (Bohanan’s)

more than just marks on paper. They make a mark on someone’s life. With your signature, research can be done. Vaccines can be discovered. Babies can simply be babies.

Join co-chairs Sanjie Garza-Cox and Erica Castro at the Hyatt Hill Country Resort and Spa for an exciting evening out while raising funds and increasing awareness of the March of Dimes mission to improve the health of babies.

Lead Signature Chef Heather Nañez from Bohanan’s and other top local chefs will prepare their signature dishes to honor stronger, healthier babies. In addition to sampling cuisine from San Antonio’s finest restaurants and chefs, you will also enjoy premium wine tastings and have the opportunity to bid on exclusive auction packages (donated by our generous chefs) that may include fine dining, resort stays, spa vacations and much more! “We are very grateful for the leadership of this year’s chairs, chefs and committee members -- all of their hard work and dedication are making this event a reality.” states KJ Feder, March of Dimes San Antonio Division executive director.

Signature Chefs is the idea that a dish or mark on paper can translate into saving babies’ lives through financial support. Without it, we would not be able to carry out our foundation’s mission on a local level through research, programs, education and advocacy. All proceeds will benefit the March of Dimes and its mission to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality.

Confirmed 2014 Signature Chefs and restaurants are: Heather Nañez (Bohanan’s); Derek Lomax (Bob's Steak and Chop House); Jeff White (Boiler House); Eduardo Franco (Brio Tuscan Grille); Charthouse (in the Tower of the Americas); Isaac Cantu (Cordillera Ranch); Steven McHugh (Cured); Justin Johnson (Max’s Wine Dive); Stephen Paprocki (NuStar Energy); Chuck Hernandez (O’liva); Samuel Boisjoly (Omni Colonnade); Scott Ronczkowski (SeaWorld); Mike Bomberg (Spice of Life); James Draper (Spring House Cafe); James Moore (TBA); Tyler Horstmann (Tejas Rodeo); Jason Dady (Umai Mi); Diana Barrios Trevino (Viola’s Ventanas); Nedra Harris (Werner’s).

If you’re interested in attending, participating or sponsoring this event, please contact Catherine Alvarado at calvarado@marchofdimes.com or (210) 515-4842.

Our Signature Chefs Auction’s elegant combination of fabulous food, great wines, good company, priceless auction packages, and a great cause will cook up an evening to remember!

8

A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

Coriander Encrusted Salmon with Orange Vinaigrette 2 salmon filets (7 ounces each) 6 tablespoons thawed orange juice concentrate (separated 4tbs and 2tbs) 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt 1/2 teaspoon coriander 1/4 teaspoon brown sugar 1/4 teaspoon peppercorn mĂŠlange (ground)

5 cups fresh spinach 1 medium orange peeled segmented 2 green onions thinly sliced 1/4 cup chopped walnuts (toasted) 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 garlic clove (minced)

Brush salmon with 4 tablespoons orange juice concentrate. Season with salt, coriander, sugar and pepper. Grill salmon covered over medium heat for 8-10 minutes or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

In a small bowl whisk vinegar, oil, garlic and remaining 2 tablespoons of orange juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste In a large bowl, combine spinach, orange segments, green onions and walnuts. Drizzle vinaigrette over salad and top with salmon.

This delicious recipe courtesy of Signature Chef Heather Naùez (Bohanan’s)

Note: The spinach in this dish is high in folic acid, a B vitamin, that is essential in reducing the risk for birth defects of the brain and spine called neural tube defects (NTDs). The best way to get enough folic acid is to take a multivitamin with 400 micrograms of folic acid before pregnancy and eat healthy foods.

Visit www.marchofdimes.com/folic-acid to learn more.

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Top 2014 March for Babies Fundraisers THANK YOU

TOP CORPORATE TEAMS HEB ........................................................................................$140,829 Mission Pharmacal .................................................................$71,342 University Health System ........................................................$54,212 Citi............................................................................................$44,451 *Halliburton .............................................................................$41,000 SeaWorld/Aquatica San Antonio...........................................$28,875 CenterPoint Energy.................................................................$20,000 Oak Farms Dairy......................................................................$17,773 Capital Group..........................................................................$14,090 Ashley Furniture ......................................................................$12,780 BD ............................................................................................$10,254 Natural Bridge Caverns ...........................................................$10,216 Accenture ..................................................................................$8,001 North East Independent School District ...................................$7,465 Hyatt .........................................................................................$7,416 Community First Health Plans .................................................$6,646 City of San Antonio ...................................................................$5,088 Farmers Insurance ...................................................................$5,000 Baptist Health System ...............................................................$4,714 KFW Engineers & Surveying .....................................................$4,420 Allstate Insurance.....................................................................$4,232 NuStar Energy...........................................................................$3,930 Superior HealthPlan .................................................................$3,582 AT&T ..........................................................................................$3,242 UnitedHealth Group (XLHealth) ...............................................$3,036

TO OUR 2014 SPONSORS PRESENTING

PLATINUM

GOLD

TOP NEISD SCHOOL TEAMS IN EACH CATEGORY High School, Churchill High School ........................................$967.91 Middle School, Garner Middle School ...................................$318.50 Elementary School, Fox Run Elementary................................$318.97

SILVER Capital Group Oak Farms Dairy

TOP FAMILY TEAMS Team Atlee.................................................................................$4,145 Team Elliot..................................................................................$3,610 Tiny Angels A&B - San Antonio ................................................$2,165 Team Rylan Jacob .....................................................................$2,015 Team Southern Babies..............................................................$1,684 Sophia Giselle............................................................................$1,540 Team Cruzito .............................................................................$1,500 Team Harper Skye.....................................................................$1,350 Super Novah's ...........................................................................$1,249 Tucker Marching for Babies.......................................................$1,217

BRONZE Accenture Community First Health Plans ROOSEVELT NuStar BD KFW Engineers & Surveying Halliburton Security Service Federal Credit Union SAS Shoemakers

TOP WALKERS Barbara Keelan ........................................................................$4,425 Carrie Cunningham ..................................................................$3,190 Natalie Sirjuesingh ...................................................................$2,965 Bill Armwood ............................................................................$2,480 Nikki Bott....................................................................................$1,885 Dawn Poitevent..........................................................................$1,410 Dan Decker................................................................................$1,375 Josie Vasquez ...........................................................................$1,309 Tom Dooley................................................................................$1,300 Josie Garza ................................................................................$1,184

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*

Halliburton receives our rising star award for raising the most money out of all new teams in 2014!

A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

Marching on for stronger, healthier babies…

Thousands of participants and volunteers came together at SeaWorld in a sea of family and corporate team shirts, butterfly wings and purple on March 22 at March for Babies.

As the president of SeaWorld and Aquatica San Antonio and March for Babies chairman, Dan Decker greeted the crowd with these words, “If you think you are not affected by premature child birth or have never been supported by the March of Dimes, just take a look around you. I did, and once I discovered how many of our team members have benefited so greatly from the 75 years of March of Dimes research, education, vaccines, breakthroughs and support, it was easy for me to understand exactly how I was affected and why I should be involved. Our team members come first at SeaWorld and Aquatica, and this was one of the best ways I found that I could lead our SeaWorld Cares effort to support our team members, now and into the future.”

Dan Decker, SeaWorld president and March for Babies chairman, speaks at the 2014 March for Babies at SeaWorld, San Antonio.

This year’s ambassador family, the Carbajal’s with baby Carson, Ray and Dan Decker, SeaWorld president and March for Babies chairman.

For the second year in a row, University Health System proudly served as Presenting Sponsor. As a participant in the very first walk for March of Dimes, George Hernandez, President/CEO of University Health System, shared, “At University Health System we are committed to improving the health of all babies, and we hope that you will continue to work and walk with us as we try to find the answers to this serious problem (of prematurity).”

This year’s ambassador family shared their story of how Carson Ray Carbajal was born weighing just 3 pounds 7 ounces and fought to survive right here in San Antonio. Emcee Ernie Zuniga from Fox News First You can join provided energy and enthusiasm during the certhe fun at the emonies, and his closing remarks are the epit45th anniversary of ome of the March for Babies spirit, “Let’s March for Babies show San Antonio and the world that we march for those who can, and those who canon Saturday, not. We march for babies who fight for their March 28, 2015 lives before they even understand what life is all at SeaWorld! about. We march for hope. We march for health.

WE MARCH FOR BABIES! GO! Baby! GO!” Thank you, local Walgreens stores for raising $25,000 with March for Babies cutouts during your June campaign!

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Prematurity Awareness Month is held in November and World Prematurity Day is on November 17th. This awareness campaign focuses the world's attention on the impact premature birth has on babies and families and on opportunities for prevention.

Local businesses can get involved by engaging employees and the local business community through one of the March of Dimes favorite events, Jail & Bail. This year we will join forces with the San Antonio Police Department and SeaWorld to bring together community leaders and ordinary citizens for a common cause – helping moms go full-term and babies be born healthier. The fun will kick-off during the week of November 17. Please call our office at (210) 696-1030 or visit our Facebook page for more information.

www.facebook.com/MOD.SA

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A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

People, Passion and Progress We are warriors in the fight against prematurity. Add in the tireless efforts of our volunteers who fortify our mission, and we are optimistically hopeful that we will see the day when all babies are born healthy.

Take a closer look at a few things we’re doing in San Antonio to make that difference…

People Tyler Paganucci is a 4th grade student at El Dorado elementary school. In a surprise presentation in front of 650 fellow students, Tyler was given the “You Make A Difference!” award for his big-hearted donation of $100 to the March of Dimes NEISD Change Challenge. When asked why he gave such a large amount of money, he explained that his grandmother gave him a $100 bill for his 10th birthday, and instead of holding on to it, he decided to donate stating: “The babies need it more than I do.”

A preemie herself, Leslie Goodman of Helotes was named a regional winner in the Kohl’s Cares Scholarship Program. There were 182 regional winners across the country who each received a $1,000 college scholarship.

Leslie was honored for her initiative to raise $2,300 to create 250 care kits for families with babies in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). She then delivered the kits to three local hospitals.

Passion Babies in San Antonio receive screening for 30 inherited disorders.

The March of Dimes funded the development of four of these tests and advocated for newborn screening for all babies.

Progress The March of Dimes: mission is actively at work in the San Antonio community through such programs and initiatives as: • $400,000 in current research funding to UT Health Science Center at San Antonio • CenteringPregnancyM prenatal education • NICU Family SupportM program at University Hospital • Becoming a Mom™/Comenzando bienM • Stork’s NestM education program in partnership with Zeta Phi Beta sorority • Folic Acid outreach campaign • Healthy Babies, Healthy Business • 39-week education campaign • And numerous grant awards to local community partners such as the Children’s Shelter and Alpha Home here in San Antonio.

Our advocacy priorities focus on improving the health of women, infants and children, including: • Access to health care • Research to prevent prematurity, birth defects and infant mortality • Prevention and treatment to improve maternal, infant and child health During the 2013 Texas Legislative Session, March of Dimes volunteers successfully advocated for: • Passage of legislation ensuring all newborns in Texas receive screening for Critical Congenital Heart Disease (CCHD) • Passage of legislation requiring licensed child care facilities to have a policy regarding vaccine preventable diseases for staff • Secured funding for the 2013 Medicaid shortfall

Take action! Sign up for advocacy alerts. Email us at advocatetexas@marchofdimes.com 14

A SPECIAL SECTION FOR SAN ANTONIO WOMAN

MENTORING

By RANDY LANKFORD

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A

Catalyst for Success Entrepreneurs realize sweet dream Starting a business isn’t easy. Just ask Katie Harvey, who founded KGBTexas.communications, one of the largest woman-owned full-service communications firms in Texas, in a one-room office in 1994.

“Like a lot of business owners, I started out with big dreams and little fear,” says Harvey. “I was the company’s only employee, and I was in need of mentors. Luckily, at the age of 24, I didn’t know how inexperienced I was. If I’d realized how much I didn’t know about running a business, I probably would have been a lot more cautious. Fortunately, I had a lot of determination and a lot of caring people who helped me along the way.”

Lauren Pepping and Molly Rodenberg, founders of Cookie Cab, awarded the Catalyst Award.

Twenty years later, Harvey has built up a successful company with locations in San Antonio, Houston and Austin, along with a wealth of business experience she’s eager to share with other entrepreneurial women. That’s why she’s presenting the Catalyst Award, a $20,000 suite of consulting and marketing support services, to a start-up, woman-owned business. It’s a scholarship to a real-world business school Lauren Pepping and Molly Rodenberg, founders of Cookie Cab, are thrilled to receive.

Pepping and Rodenberg aren’t your average moms. Both had successful, and demanding, business careers, but when each had her first child, the long hours in the office were hours they couldn’t spend with their families, a sacrifice they weren’t willing to make.

“Our families are very important to us,” Pepping explains. “Molly and I met through our children, so we had that instant connection. And we both had an innate desire to start our own business, but it had to be something we could do while spending time with our families. We also immediately bonded because of our love of food.”

That combination of a passion for baking and an entrepreneurial spirit resulted in the birth of Cookie Cab. “We were talking about what we each wanted for our future and our families,” says Pepping, “and Molly said, ‘Wouldn’t it be great if we could deliver warm, baked-to-order cookies?’ I loved the idea, and we started working on our business plan the very next day. We found the perfect commercial kitchen space to rent, and it just took off from there.”

The grand opening of Cookie Cab was put on hold for about a year while Pepping and Rodenberg each had another child before the twosome started delivering their “homemade” cookies in January 2014 throughout San Antonio. And they’re doing it on their terms — only on Monday, Wednesday and Friday — so they can still have time to spend at home with their youngest children. Demand has grown to the point they’ll start delivering cookies five days a week in September.

“The reception has just been amazing,” Pepping says. “Who doesn’t love homemade cookies? And when you can just order them online or by phone and they show up at your door warm and gooey? That’s just the best.”

“Lauren and Molly and I share a lot of the same values,” adds Harvey. “We want to provide for our families, but we also want to be with our families. I love it that these two young women are taking more control over their lives and taking the time to raise their children. I’ve been very fortunate in my career that some generous people shared their experience with me. If I can help another woman be successful by shortening her business-learning curve by sharing some of the lessons I’ve learned, then I’ve paid my experience forward. That’s what this is all about.” september/october 2014 | 115

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ROLE MODEL

By PAULA ALLEN

Photography by JANET ROGERS

in her eyes Halee Bernard prepares for a career making movies If you grow up

as a constant reader and write well enough

To have an impact on the industry, she’s come to the right place.

to be accepted at one of the most competi-

AFI alumni include some big names among directors of influential

tive creative-writing programs in the country, are you selling out if

films, such as Darren Aronofsky (Black Swan), David Lynch (Blue Vel-

you choose a career making movies?

vet, Mulholland Drive) and Terrence Malick (Badlands, Tree of Life),

Halee Bernard doesn’t even have to think about it: Absolutely not.

as well as up-and-coming talent like Drake Doremus (Like Crazy,

A second-year fellow at the AFI Conservatory — the graduate school

Breathe In). Students, called fellows, work together on short films —

of the prestigious American Film Institute — she plans to become a

in one year, Bernard earned credits on 10 — toward a two-year master

producer of quality films, adaptations and character studies, dramas

of fine arts degree that can be an entrée into professional film pro-

or light comedy that are “true to myself and my taste.”

duction. A student’s thesis film, completed by the end of the second

That taste is for thoughtful character studies, such as Tom Ford’s A Single Man, an adaptation of a novel by Christopher Isherwood, or

year, can be picked up by a film festival and distributed online and could even win an Academy Award in the Student Film category.

Sam Mendes’ American Beauty, which Bernard describes as a “classic

Of hundreds of applications, AFI accepts only 140 new fellows

examination of character, the lives and emotions of the main charac-

each year. Bernard aims to become a producer, and only 28 students

ter, his wife and daughter, all their objectives, goals and dreams under

are chosen for that program. Her acceptance is particularly impres-

one roof.” She’d like to make movies like these, “not large-scale

sive, since she wasn’t a college film major. At Boston University, she

(films), but stories that zoom in on one person’s life.” For Bernard,

majored in communications, not even applying to undergraduate

“They’re the most relatable, particularly when they’re about women.

programs in film studies. At Reagan High School when Bernard at-

As I’ve grown up, there’s been an absence of strong women charac-

tended, “there was not a single film class. There was no way I would

ters onscreen.”

have been a competitive candidate.”

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At BU, she took courses in screenwriting as well as creative writing. “I knew I was a storyteller, but I wasn’t sure about the medium,” she says. So she applied to graduate programs at AFI and at the University of Chicago, where she was admitted to a master’s program in creative writing with the possibility of continuing for a Ph.D. She picked the film program because, she says, “there’s something private about writing; it made me nervous.”

By contrast, film is a collaborative art, with the producer in the lead. Bernard decided to focus on producing because “You’re the first person to start (a project) and the last one to finish.

You’re there from Mile One to Mile 26. You hire everybody, pay everybody, develop the story with the writer, sit in on every casting session — a little bit of everything.” A good producer is “the communications nucleus of the team, half HR, half therapy, guiding the director’s vision.”

During several summer film-related internships, “I brought so many cups of coffee, but I also learned so much,” she says. This past summer, she was a production trainee at Sony/Columbia Pictures, where a woman, Hannah Minghella, is president of production, and a former vice president, Elizabeth Cantillon, recently got a three-year production deal, charged with launching the Goosebumps franchise.

At Sony, says Bernard, “I got to see so much and listen to conversations on such a high scale. It gave me a real-world perspective on what we’re doing at AFI.” For her thesis film, tentatively titled Coyote Tree, Bernard and her team are filming the story of a girl crossing the border from Mexico to California illegally. “It will be about sacrifices we make and the storms we’re willing to brave, putting ourselves in danger, knowing the possible consequences, but the drive (to accomplish something) still stands,” she says. Good movies, to Bernard, are the ones that “make people feel. A hundred people in a room go to a movie, and they’ve shared a common experience. They’ve walked in someone else’s shoes, learned about

HALEE BERNARD Age: 23

different people.”

After graduation, she plans to take off a few months, spend-

Occupation: Graduate student in film; second-year fellow, AFI Conservatory

ing time with her family and traveling. She’ll be keeping an eye out for what’s going on at studios and production companies and hopes to find a job at one that has “the right chemistry of personalities and corporate culture.” Eventually, she’d like to produce movies “not just for recognition but with writers and directors and projects I believe in.”

Having her MFA will mean she’ll also be able to teach at the college level someday. “As a woman who wants a family, that could give me a more flexible schedule (than film production), more balance.” Once she has been in the business for about 10 years, “long enough to give me some clout,” Bernard wants to “foster new voices, find new talent and give them an opportunity.”

There’s just one drawback to her intense approach to a film

Personal: Dating a fellow AFI student who’s a production designer – yes, she would work with him after graduation!

Why she’s a Role Model: Getting an early start on her chosen career as a film producer, found an art form that lets her express herself artistically while using her leadership skills.

Believes that … “With the right amount of passion and ambition, anything is possible if you put in the hours.”

Goals: Produce a documentary about the environment, publish a book of short stories, have a prolific career producing a lot of films, teach and have a family.

People would be surprised that I … “Dressed up and waited for the midnight release of the fourth Harry Potter book when I was 9 years old. I wrote a review of it that was published in the Express-News.”

career. “I’m a perfectionist, very driven,” she says. “If a cup is full, I see the potential for it to be fuller.” At AFI, she has “learned the language to critique visual storytelling, character and plot.” It’s a potent combination. Yes, Bernard says, it’s still fun to go to the movies, but most of the time, she can’t turn off her producer’s brain. “I know (something) is an incredible movie,” she says, “only

Favorite relaxation strategy: Vinyasa yoga, a dance-like form characterized by smooth movements and synchronized breathing — “It clears the mind; you just float.”

Last movie seen: Guardians of the Galaxy; the superhero blockbuster is not to her usual taste but she found it “fantastic and funny, (with) the right tone, balancing action and comedy.”

when I stop critiquing it.”

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ARTBEAT

All the right moves Ballet San Antonio comes into its own

Ballet San Antonio’s president and executive director Courtney Barker has long wanted her company to play a part in the revitalization of downtown, and this fall a big part of that plan is becoming reality. Together with the San Antonio Symphony and the new opera company, BSA will be one of the main resident companies at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, the $203 million venue that transformed Municipal Auditorium and the adjacent riverbank into a state-of-the-art performance complex.

“It’s extremely exciting,” exclaims Barker, whose office is in the Radius Building just across the street from the Tobin. “It feels like we are entering a new era for the performing arts, especially dance. Up to now, few venues in the city could accommodate major ballet productions. And now we’ll have a really good one. It’s a huge platform for our company, and we are ready to show San Antonians what a true professional ballet company they have.”

Courtney Barker, president and executive director of Ballet San Antonio, will oversee BSA's move to the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts, where it will become a resident company. In October it will perform Dracula, which premiered two years ago to great acclaim.

We are having this conversation in early August, almost a month before the Tobin’s Sept.

4 inaugural show that will, of course, include BSA. The dancers have already started rehearsing for the celebratory program, which includes excerpts from Swan Lake and Scheherazade as well as the gypsy dance from the opera Carmen. But there’s a lot more to come. With the 2014-15 season, BSA is asserting itself with all the right moves: richer and more challenging programming than ever before, high-level collaborations, a larger company and new additions to its artistic staff.

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By JASMINA WELLINGHOFF

Photography JANET ROGERS

The season officially starts Oct. 16 with Dracula, a beautifully crafted ballet that premiered in 2012 to great acclaim; continues with the perennially beloved Nutcracker and offers two new works in the spring — Romeo and Juliet and Donizetti Variations. While the first two productions have been choreographed by BSA artistic director Gabriel Zertuche, the last two are creations of legendary choreographers — respectively, Ben Stevenson, who built the Houston Ballet to what it is today, and the iconic 20th-century dancemaker George Balanchine.

“We are proud to give our dancers the opportunity to work with choreography by these world-renowned masters and to present these works to the public,” says Barker. “Getting the rights to the Balanchine work is huge for dance in San Antonio. We had to go through

now selling ballet, arguably the most spectacular and beguiling of all

an application process with the Balanchine Trust to prove our artistic

the performing arts. “I always knew that I wanted San Antonio to

accomplishments, which included sending them videos of our recent

have a full-time professional ballet company and that I wanted to be

productions. They’ll be sending former New York City Ballet principal

part of it. So I am really working in my dream job.”

Philip Neal here for a month to stage the piece.”

Stevenson, who now lives and works in Dallas, will also dispatch

Barker’s first nondancing role at BSA was that of community relations director, quickly followed by a promotion to executive direc-

experienced former stars to coach BSA through the rehearsal

tor and

process for his Romeo and Juliet before he himself arrives to put on

“president” in January 2012. At that time, the board also announced

the finishing touches a week before the opening.

the appointment of Zertuche as artistic director. In a few short years,

This artistic growth has been made possible by getting out of debt

an expansion of duties with the addition of the title

the two have made huge strides in expanding BSA’s scope.

and expanding fundraising efforts. Since Barker took the helm of the

Married to a Brit whom she met 11 years ago in San Antonio while

organization, the budget has tripled, corporate sponsorships and do-

both were in line at a Subway restaurant, Barker is the mother of two

nations have increased, and the company has grown to 32 members

young children, one of whom — her daughter Nina — is “already prac-

whose contract has been extended from 20 to 30 weeks per year. In

ticing her arabesques.” The dancers call her Nina-ballerina. Though

addition, Barker has helped BSA gain more visibility and reach out fur-

her husband, Matthew, had never seen a ballet before he met her, it

ther into the community. Last spring, the company held its first free

didn’t take long to turn him into a devotee. “Early in our relationship,

Ballet in the Park show in Travis Park that exposed some 1,200 people

I forced him to come watch me dance in ballet class,” admits Barker.

to the art form. Through its Learning That Moves You program, it also

“He was amazed by how difficult and technical it was, and he has

gives a lot of free tickets to Title 1 schools (disadvantaged youth) and

since turned into a huge fan and advocate of ballet. Not only does

presents lectures/demonstrations in area schools.

he attend performances, he has even volunteered (or maybe I volun-

One program the president is especially happy about is BSA’s

teered him) to help backstage.”

partnership with the Boys & Girls Club through which professional

She believes that most people would respond like Matthew did if

dancers teach free ballet classes to the kids on a regular weekly

given a chance to see a good performance. In fact, ballet’s popularity

basis. The initiative has recently been recognized by the American

has been growing throughout the United States. Today, almost every

Ballet Theater’s Project Plié that aims to increase diversity in the bal-

big city has a professional resident company. “I want my community

let world. Thus, outstanding San Antonio students may get a chance

to have the opportunity to be exposed to this as other people in

to study at ABT’s school in New York during the summer months.

major cities across the world are,” says Barker.

Her dream job Following in her mother’s footsteps, young Courtney started dancing early but “did not take it seriously” until the age of 12, when

BALLET SAN ANTONIO’s 2014-15 Season

All shows at the Tobin Center

she enrolled in the Vladimir Marek Ballet Academy on a scholarship.

It was intense training with classes six days a week. At 15, she was

Dracula – Oct. 16 - 19

accepted into the Washington, D.C.-based Kirov Academy’s summer intensive program. Though the prestigious school invited her to stay for the entire year, her parents nixed the idea. Three years later, the now adult ballerina joined Ballet San Antonio, then under the leadership of founder Mayra Worthen. Back then, the company focused mostly on the holiday production of The Nutcracker, allowing her plenty of time to pursue a degree in communications at UTSA and later to work as a Realtor to supplement her dance salary.

The Nutcracker (with the San Antonio Symphony) – Nov. 28 - Dec. 7 Romeo and Juliet (with the San Antonio Symphony) – Feb.12 – 15, 2015 Balanchine’s Donizetti Variations – March 27 – 29, 2015

“I learned a lot from my time in real estate,” says Barker, who still has the graceful bearing of a ballerina, “people skills, elements of finance and, of course, sales and marketing — all skills that help in my

For information, contact BSA at (210) 404-9641 or go to info@balletsanantonio.org.

current job. In a way, I am still selling.” The difference is that she’s september/october 2014 | 119

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DINING

STARFISH IN

Stylish restaurant swims in a new direction

SOUTHTOWN

Draped nets and

as a focus. And now comes Starfish, a stylish

Florida — not a bad place to soak up some

fishing floats and

new place at the entrance to Southtown. Sit-

seafood savvy. Dishes have already changed

tempest-tossed

ting at the right hand of Azuca’s Latin-

some since the recent opening, but remain-

lifesavers . . . the

themed bar, Starfish is the creation of Diego

ing favorite appetizers include a lightly cured

temptation must

Fernandez and his father, René, chef and

catch-of-the-day crudo that is almost up-

be great.

owner of Azuca. There are no nets to be

staged by its accompaniment of “com-

I refer to the

seen, nary a shellacked starfish in sight. Yes,

pressed” watermelon. The Hawaiian poke

décor

so

there are a few vaguely nautical elements on

(poh-kay, in case you’re wondering) of mari-

many knee-jerk

the exposed brick walls, but otherwise the

nated ahi tuna with seaweed and cucumber

seafood

joints

burden is borne by a series — a school, per-

can come across as somewhat soupy but is

around the world — the aquatic equivalent of

haps—of blown-glass light fixtures appar-

otherwise fresh and appealing.

the serape-and-sombrero motifs that once

ently inspired by the Portuguese man-

of

defined Mexican restaurants.

But like the campesino-under-the-cactus

of-war, a seductive but seriously poisonous

The surprise starter, however, is the chef’s

sea creature. We will try not to read too

vegetable escabeche, enlivened, in one iter-

much into that.

ation, by beet-tinged cauliflower and stud-

The menu itself is inspired by the sea but not

on market availability, but your resolve to order it should not waver.

ded with fava beans. It will vary depending

cliché, sensibilities are changing.

In San Antonio, though some find it a tad too

limited to it. Fernandez the younger is CIA

stark, Sandbar at Pearl blazed a path in the

Hyde Park-trained and has experience at

undraped design of restaurants with seafood

restaurants that include a Ritz-Carlton in

120 | sawoman.com

I’m imagining that the bread salad (it would

By RON BECHTOL

Photography JANET ROGERS

STARFISH: Opposite, the nautical-themed interior of Starfish restaurant in Southtown. Above, menu choices include (clockwise, from upper left) a snapper crudo appetizer with "compressed" watermelon, scallops with celery root and apple puree, a dessert of banana bread with brûléed bananas and plantain crisps and charred octopus with vegetables.

be called panzanella in Italian) will continue

too fine — though the tomato and fennel

to evolve; at first sampling the bread wasn’t

bouillon has hints of something intriguing.

tion; it’s on the list for another time.

torn as promised, and the cheese also didn’t

On the other hand, maybe it just needs an-

The award for most-improved dish on the

conform to its description (it’s now listed as

other name on the order of Biga’s “Close-

menu must surely go to the key lime tart.

“artisan” cheese, allowing for necessary

to-Bouillabaisse.”

Originally presented in a unique, rectangular

loom tomatoes (in season only, please) and

Shrimp were featured in that Mediterranean

it has been re-imagined as a more conven-

tomato vinaigrette, this is a dish that should

fish stew, but they show even more impres-

tional tart with a torched meringue topknot,

be experienced.

sively in a homey dish with American roots:

and it’s now a stunner. There were inventive

shrimp in grits with a chorizo vinaigrette.

aspects to the bitter budino, too, but despite

Variations on a French bouillabaisse can be

Lush and creamy, the grits would make a

a disc of toasty popped quinoa and some ap-

also be expected because of availability of

Southern grandma proud, and the chorizo

pealing rose gelée, the chocolate itself wasn’t

fish; in Marseille, where the stew-like dish

adds just the right touch of Rhett Butler.

emphatic enough — it’s our vote for the next

originated, all manner of so-called “trash”

Tiger shrimp are also fine in a Thai stir-fry

dish to get a modest makeover.

fish are used — but it’s just these otherwise

with buckwheat noodles. Here, we only hope

unlovely components that make for a mag-

for a little more-typically-Thai cool-hot con-

In the meantime, there’s much to occupy the

nificent broth. For my taste, Fernandez may

trast to enliven the noodles and the roasted

beachcomber, including a cocktail list that

have abstracted this dish just a little too far,

peanut sauce. One additional dish with wa-

features the likes of a strawberry martini with

presenting a visually handsome bowl that’s

tery origins — above, not below — is the duck

Bombay Sapphire, Pernod, lemon and a

not full-fathom deep. It is, in other words,

pot pie served with a pomegranate reduc-

house-made strawberry syrup.

form that unfortunately emphasized the crust,

substitutions). But with its handsome heir-

september/october 2014 | 121

TIME EAT to

RESTAURANT GUIDE

AMERICAN

BIGA ON THE BANKS BIRD BAKERY BLISS BOUDRO’S CAPPY’S CAPPYCCINO’S BISTRO CYPRESS GRILL ANNE MARIES’S BISTRO SAN ANTONIO CAFÉ CHEESECAKE FACTORY FEAST THE GRILL AT LEON SPRINGS GUENTHER HOUSE HOULIHAN'S J. ALEXANDER’S JOSEPHINE STREET KONA GRILL LIBERTY BAR MADRID ROOM MAGIC TIME MACHINE MAMA'S CAFE THE MONTEREY RAINFOREST CAFÉ RESTAURANT GWENDOLYN SCENIC LOOP CAFE SILO ELEVATED CUISINE STONE WERKS VINEYARD ZEDRIC’S

203 S. St. Mary’s 225-0722 5912 Broadway 804-2473 926 S. Presa 225-2547 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 1024 S. Alamo 354-1024 24116 IH-10 W. 698-8797 205 E. Guenther 227-1061 14601 IH-35 N. 651-4744 385 N. Loop 1604 W. 494-3371 555 E. Basse 824-0275 400 E. Josephine 224-6169 15900 La Cantera Pkwy.

877-5355 1111 S. Alamo 227-1187 300 E. Travis 227-4392 902 N.E. Loop 410 828-1470 2442 Nacogdoches 826-8303 7929 Pat Booker Rd. 653-2002 1127 S. St. Mary’s 745-2581 517 N. Presa 223-3297 152 E. Pecan #100 222-1849 25615 Boerne Stage Rd. 687-1818 1133 Austin Highway 824-8686 434 N. Loop 1604 483-8989 Broadway at Basse 823-3508 27315 FM 3009 (830) 980-8033 5231 Broadway 824-6000

ASIAN Hsiu Yu 8338 Broadway St San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 828-2273

BIG KAHUNAS CHINA BISTRO DING HOW FORMOSA GARDENS FUJIYA GOLDEN WOK

ILSONG GARDEN INDIA OVEN INDIA PALACE KOI KAWA MANOLA’S THAI MENCIUS’S GOURMET MON THAI BISTRO P. F. CHANG’S SUSHIHANA SUSHI ZUSHI

TAIPEI SAWASDEE

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741 W. Ashby Pl. 10103 Huebner Road 4531 N.W. Loop 410 1011 N. E. Loop 410 9030 Wurzbach 8822 Wurzbach 8230 Marbach 6905 Blanco Rd. 1031 Patricia 8440 Fredericksburg 4051 Broadway 7212 Blanco Rd. 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 6407 Blanco Road

733-8473 340-7944 340-7944 828-9988 615-7553 615-8282 674-2577 366-4508 366-1033 692-5262 805-8111 348-9071 615-1288 822-3253 507-1000 507-6500 340-7808 691-3332 472-2900 826-8500 545-6100 366-3012 403-3316 979-9110

THAI LAO RESTAURANT TOKYO STEAK HOUSE TONG’S THAI

126 W. Rector 9405 San Pedro 1146 Austin Highway

524-9908 341-4461 829-7345

BARBECUE BUN ‘N’ BARREL THE BARBEQUE STATION CHIT CHAT BBQ THE COUNTY LINE RUDY’S COUNTRY STORE TWO BROTHERS BBQ

1150 Austin Hwy. 610 N.E. Loop 410 218 N. Cherry 111 W. Crockett 10101 I-10 W. 24152 IH-10 W. 15560 I-35 N. 10623 Westover Hills 12656 West Ave .

828-2829 691-3332 271-2888 229-1491 641-1998 698-2141 653-7839 520-5552 496-0222

CAJUN/CREOLE ACADIANA BIG EASY CAFE BOURBON STREET SEAFOOD PAT O’BRIEN’S

1289 S.W. Loop 410 4822 Walzem Road 2815 N. Loop 1604 121 Alamo Plaza

674-0019 653-5688 545-0666 212-8698

EUROPEAN ANAQUA GRILL CHEZ VATEL & BISTRO CITRUS COCO CHOCOLATE CRUMPETS FIG TREE FREDERICK’S FREDERICK’S BISTRO THE GAZEBO AT LOS PATIOS HOUSTON STREET BISTRO LAS CANARIAS LA FRITE BELGIAN BISTRO LION & ROSE ENGLISH PUB

555 S. Alamo 218 E. Olmos 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.

LÜKE 125 E. Houston MESON EUROPEAN DINING 923 N. Loop 1604 E. NOSH 1133 Austin Highway SAVEURS 209 209 Broadway WAXY O’CONNOR’S 234 River Walk

229-1000 828-3141 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 824-8686 639-3165 229-9299

HAMBURGERS BIG’Z BURGER JOINT BOBBY J’S BUCKHORN SALOON BURGER BOY CHRIS MADRID’S CHEESY JANE’S CHESTER’S HAMBURGERS

FATTY’S FUDDRUCKERS GOURMET BURGER GRILL LONGHORN CAFE MO MAK’S RED ROBIN SAM’S BURGER JOINT TEXAS HAMBURGER CO

2303 N. Loop 1604 W. 13247 Bandera Rd. 318 E. Houston St. 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. 9010 Huebner Rd.

408-2029 695-4941 247-4000 735-1955 735-3552 826-0800 805-8600 699-1222 494-3333 658-3000 299-8110 223-9944 824-6703 545-3800 492-0301 481-3600 494-2500 223-2830 699-1189

ORIGINAL MEXICAN PALOMA BLANCA PALOMA RIVER WALK PAPPASITO’S CANTINA PERICO’S BAR AND GRILL

ITALIAN Scuzzi’s 4035 N Loop 1604 W San Antonio, TX (210) 493-8884 ALDINO AT THE VINEYARD 1203 N. Loop 1604 W. 8539 Fredericksburg ALDO'S RISTORANTE BRAVO CUCINA ITALIANA 15900 La Cantera Pkwy.

CAPPARELLI’S ON MAIN 2524 N. Main CARRABBA’S ITALIAN GRILL 12507 IH-10 W. CERRONI’S PURPLE GARLIC 1017 Austin Hwy. DOUGH PIZZERIA 6989 Blanco 200 E. Grayson, #100 IL SOGNO OSTERIA 8032 Fredericksburg Rd. LORENZO’S LA FOCACCIA ITALIAN GRILL 800 S. Alamo 824 Afterglow LITTLE ITALY LUCE RISTORANTE E ENOTECA11255 Huebner LUCIANO’S 849 E. Commerce 401 South Alamo 521 River Walk MICHELINO’S MILANO RISTORANTE 11802 Wurzbach PAESANOS 555 E. Basse 111 W. Crockett Loop 1604 at N.W. Military 255 E. Basse PIATTI PIATTI EILAN 1701 La Cantera Pkwy., #7 PICCOLO’S 5703 Evers Rd. 16019 Nacogdoches POMPEII ITALIAN GRILL TRE TRATTORIA 4003 Broadway 401 S. Alamo

340-0000 696-2536 877-9300 735-5757 694-4191 822-2300 979-6363 223-3900 692-9900 223-5353 349-2060 561-9700 223-0500 888-7030 223-2939 493-3611 828-5191 227-2782 493-1604 832-0300 251-3542 647-5524 946-5518 805-0333 223-0401

MEDITERRANEAN DEMO’S COPA WINE BAR GREEK TO ME JERUSALEM GRILL JOHN THE GREEK MIMI & DIMI’S PAPOULI’S GRILL

7115 Blanco 2501 N. St. Mary’s 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

5440 Babcock Rd. 3259 Wurzbach Rd. 16602 San Pedro 7159 W US Hiwy 90 8250 Agora Pkwy., #120 255 E. Basse, #384 11224 Huebner, #201

342-2772 732-7777 495-2672 699-6688 680-8400 403-0565 674-3464 659-2244 804-1118 641-1313

MEXICAN/LATIN

SAZO’S LATIN GRILL SOLUNA COCINA MEXICANA TOMATILLOS CANTINA URBAN TACO

224-9951 822-6151 212-0566 691-8974 684-5376 402-6006 822-3797 225-6060 226-8462 223-1806 481-4100 646-8088 558-6788 223-1000 930-8070 824-3005 332-5149

PIZZA BARBARO 2920 McCullough CALIFORNIA PIZZA KITCHEN 11745 IH-10 W. 255 E. Basse Rd. FLORIO’S PIZZA 7701 Broadway GRIMALDI’S PIZZA 330 E. Basse, #101 618 McCullough GUILLERMO’S MISS ELLIE’S 903 E. Bitters Rd 5146 Broadway SORRENTO TRILOGY PIZZA BISTRO 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

VOLARE GOURMET PIZZA 5054 Broadway

320-2261 699-4275 424-2014 805-8646 832-8288 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 THE SANDBAR WILDFISH SEAFOOD GRILLE

18130 Hwy. 281 N. 11703 Huebner Road 517 N. Presa 76 N.E. Loop 410 212 W. Crockett 200 E. Grayson 1834 N.W. Loop 1604

495-3474 694-4201 527-1845 340-7143 396-5817 212-2221 493-1600

SOUTHWESTERN CALIZA GRILL CANYON CAFE FRANCESCA’S AT SUNSET ORO RESTAURANT AND BAR

420 W. Market 225 E. Basse 16641 La Cantera Pkwy.

705 E. Houston

224-6500 225-0722 558-6500 225-5100

STEAKS

El Jarro 13421 San Pedro San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 494-5084 ÁCENAR MODERN TEX-MEX 146 E. Houston AJUÚA! CUISINE DE MEXICO 11703 Huebner ALAMO CAFÉ 10060 IH-10 W. 14250 San Pedro ALDACO'S 100 Hoefgen 20079 Stone Oak Pkwy.

AZUCA NUEVO LATINO 713 S. Alamo CASA RIO 430 E. Commerce BETO’S 8421 Broadway CIELITO LINDO 19141 Stone Oak Pkwy.

EL CHAPARRAL 15103 Bandera 2838 N. Loop 1604 EL MIRADOR 722 S. St. Mary’s EL MIRASOL ALTA COCINA 13489 Blanco IRON CACTUS MEXICAN GRILL200 River Walk LA FOGATA 2427 Vance Jackson LA FONDA ALAMO HEIGHTS 1633 Crownhill LA FONDA ON MAIN 2415 N. Main LA FONDA OAK HILLS 350 Northaven LA HACIENDA DE LOS BARRIOS 18747 Redland Rd. LA MARGARITA 120 Produce Row LOS BARRIOS 4223 Blanco MAMACITA’S 8030 IH-10 W. MI TIERRA CAFE AND BAKERY 218 Produce Row

PICANTE GRILL PICO DE GALLO RIO RIO CANTINA ROSARIO’S ROSARIO’S NORTH SALSALITO’S

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 7915 San Pedro 14535 Nacogdoches 11523 Bandera 101 Bowie 7959 Broadway 3210 Broadway 290 E. Basse, #105

222-2362 877-0600 691-8827 495-2233 222-0561 494-0561 225-5550 225-6718 930-9393 545-6965 695-8302 490-8302 225-9444 479-8765 224-9835 340-1337 824-4231 733-0621 342-8981 497-8000 227-7140 732-6017 341-5424 225-1262

Chama Gaucha 18318 Sonterra Place San Antonio, TX 78258 (210) 564-9400 Fleming’s 255 East Basse Rd. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-9463

ANTLERS LODGE THE BARN DOOR BOLO’S ROTISSERIE GRILLE GREY MOSS INN KIRBY’S STEAKHOUSE LITTLE RHEIN STEAKHOUSE MORTON’S STEAKHOUSE MYRON’S STEAKHOUSE OUNCE STEAKHOUSE THE PALM PERRY’S STEAKHOUSE RUTH'S CHRIS

9800 Hyatt Resort Dr. 8400 N. New Braunfels 9821 Colonnade 10901 Scenic Loop 123 N. Loop 1604 E. 231 S. Alamo 849 E. Commerce 10003 N.W. Military 1401 N. Loop 1604 W. 233 E. Houston 15900 La Cantera Pkwy.

7720 Jones Maltsberger 600 E. Market Street

520-4001 824-0116 691-8888 695-8301 404-2221 225-1212 228-0700 493-3031 493-6200 226-7256 558-6161 821-5051 227-8847

ENHANCE YOUR LISTING! Call (210) 826-5375 for more information.

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WEDDINGS

Mr. and Mrs. Patrick McCarty Leach (Courtney Diane Catalani) June 14, 2014

David Sixt

Mr. and Mrs. Kenny Saeed Al-Haj (Alyssa Michelle Littlefield) June 21, 2014

David Sixt

Mr. and Mrs. Michael Long (Nithya Thiagarajan) July 26, 2014

Jenna-Beth Lyde/Parish Photography

David Sixt

Mr. and Mrs. Damian Bernard Kaiser (Mary Clare Harkins) July 19, 2014

Jenna-Beth Lyde/Parish Photography

Mr. and Mrs. Craig Rosenstien (Martha Robalin) June 14, 2014

David Sixt

Mr. and Mrs. Jordan Main (Kristie Richmond) June 6, 2014

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E V E N T S / P E O P L E /P LA C ES /O PE NI N GS 1

AROUND TOWN 3

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Friends of Hospice Reception Benefiting CHRISTUS VNA Hospice

Chair-ity Gala Benefiting Ronald McDonald House

1. Yona and Tom McNish with Gretchen Burkholder 2. Beverly Pace and Lupita Medina 3. Lisa Blonkvist, Jennifer Perloff, Kim Fischer and Dorothy Wick

4. Leslie Foley and Ronald McDonald 5. Nichelle B. Hosley, Virginia Briner and Shavonne Conroy 6. Nicole Hensley, Dr. Cynthia Trevino and Karen Shaffer

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WOMEN ON THE MOVE

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Victoria Banks

KJ Feder

Elizabeth Hetrick

Emily Kempf

Mollie Calvert Massari

Dr. Michelle Muldrow

TMI-The Episcopal School of Texas has named Victoria Banks as head of middle school.

Previously assistant head of school at Rancho Solano Preparatory School in Scottsdale, Ariz., she has 20 years’ experience as an administrator and teacher, including at international schools in Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

KJ Feder, new Division Executive Director of the March of Dimes, moved into the leadership position after serving as March for Babies director since 2009.

She is a member of Leadership San Antonio and a recent graduate of Alex Briseno Leadership Development Program.

Elizabeth Hetrick is now senior vice president, wealth advisor and team manager in the wealth management division at Broadway Bank. She earned experience in estate planning and trust and estate administration at Bexar County Probate Court and in private practice. She serves on the board of governors of the San Antonio Estate Planners Council and is a Certified Trust and Financial Advisor.

Emily Kempf has been promoted to assistant vice president, treasury management sales officer, at Broadway Bank. She has worked as the banking services manager at the Broadway Bank San Marcos Banking Center since 2013 and is pursuing a degree in leadership and management at Texas State University.

She also serves on the bank’s Care Corps Committee.

Mollie Calvert Massari has joined KGBTexas .communications as advertising manager.

A Texas Christian University graduate, she has managed marketing and communications plans for Alamo Quarry Market, Huebner Oaks, North Star Mall, The Shops at La Cantera and the Fashion Show in Las Vegas. Most recently, she was director of marketing for Saks Fifth Avenue.

The Institute for Women’s Health welcomes new obstetrics and gynecology physician, Michelle Muldrow, D.O., to the practice. She earned a master’s in social work at Columbia University and graduated with honors from New York College of Osteopathic Medicine. With a focus on holistic health, she will see patients at both IWH locations.

Julia Murphy

Vicki Siluk-Aguilar

Melinda Torres

Julia Murphy is the new executive director of Green Spaces Alliance of South Texas, which is dedicated to sustaining the natural environment and enhancing urban spaces through land conservation, education and community engagement.

Coming from the city of San Antonio’s Office of Sustainability, she is a certified community and regional planner with a long involvement in local green initiatives.

Vicki Siluk-Aguilar has moved to the Broadway Bank Alamo Heights Banking Center as vice president, market manager, following seven years as JBSA-Randolph Banking Center market manager. She has been with Broadway Bank 11 years, serving at the Alamo Heights, Huebner and Main Banking Centers.

She has more than 35 years of banking experience.

Marketing specialist Melinda Torres has joined KGBTexas .communications as media planner/ buyer. The San Antonio College graduate began her career with Guerra DeBerry Coody in 2003, and was also a media planner/ buyer at Bromley Communications.

Her clients have included Sprint, Burger King, Time Warner and Baptist Hospital.

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LOOKING BACK

A San Antonio crowd gathers to see President Theodore Roosevelt giving an address at the Alamo.

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