TAYLOR LANE
Welcome to the November edition of 78209 Magazine!
Back again for the holiday season is our much-anticipated Holiday Gift Guide—continuing next month as well! This issue’s guide is packed with incredible gift ideas, festive décor, seasonal drinks, and so much more.
Our featured neighbors this month were such a joy to work with! Marisa, Ignacio, and their son, Felix, are the talented family behind the Agarita String Chamber Ensemble. Their home was filled with art, light, and the promise of a delicious home-cooked meal later that evening. Photographer Lynn Yao beautifully captured their warmth and energy during our photo shoot.
If you haven’t yet visited Geraldine’s Natural Wines, tucked between Cappy’s Restaurant and Broadway Daily Bread, you’re in for a treat. Their wine selection is, of course, exceptional—but we also got lost exploring their other treasures: artisan candles, hand towels, books, candies, and glassware—more great gift ideas! Not a drinker? They even have a thoughtfully curated section of non-alcoholic options, too.
Cheers,
Photo by Suzanne Pack, Celebrated Reflections
PUBLISHER
Las Tres Muchachas
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Taylor Lane Taylor@78209magazine.com
DIRECTOR OF SALES & PARTNERSHIPS
Dale Lane
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Kimberly Pipes, PCM®, CDMP
ADVERTISING SALES
Cindy Jennings Bruce X. Forey
FOR ADVERTISING and INFORMATION (210) 236-5834 info@78209magazine.com
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A Las Tres Muchachas Production Cathleen & Dale Lane 7979 Broadway, Suite 109 San Antonio, Texas 78209 (210) 236-5834 | @78209magazine www.78209magazine.com
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CONTRIBUTORS
BRUCE X. FOREY
TO THE EDITOR / SUBSCRIPTIONS / CONNECT
To view us online, visit: 78209magazine.com
To Subscribe: $19.95 (one year) Contact us: info@78209Magazine.com | (210) 236-5834
YAO
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. 78209 MAGAZINE reserves the right to edit all materials for clarity and space and assumes no responsibility for accuracy, errors or omissions. 78209 MAGAZINE 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.
Tres Muchachas
Cover Photo
Photography by Lynn Yao
Writer
LYNN
Photographer
ELIZABETH BOBBITT Writer
Special Feature
Celebrating seven decades of giving, The Charity Ball Association’s Storybook Garden Gala brought together elegance, purpose, and the power of community for Bexar County’s children.
14
Business Profile
Take a trip to Geraldine’s Natural Wines, where owner Travis Higdon is leading the charge in a return to true winemaking with his varied selections of artisanal wines.
18
Meet Your Neighbor
Discover how Alamo Heights couple Igancio Gallego Fernández and Marisa Bushman co-founded Agarita, a chamber music ensemble that is transforming the classical concert experience in San Antonio.
This month’s cover offers a glimpse inside Geraldine’s Natural Wines, where artful labels and handpicked bottles tell stories of vineyards near and far. The boutique’s curated selection celebrates the craft of natural winemaking and the beauty of slowing down to savor something special. Captured by photographer Lynn Yao, the image radiates the cozy, convivial spirit of November — a toast to good taste, good company, and the joy of discovery.
IN THE LOOP
Farewell Good Time Charlie’s
After more than four decades of serving the community, Good Time Charlie’s has closed its doors on Broadway, marking the end of an iconic local era. The beloved restaurant’s former site will soon welcome an exciting new chapter as The DoSeum expands into the space, bringing even more opportunities for hands-on learning and family fun to the neighborhood. This transition reflects the continued growth and creativity that define San Antonio’s vibrant Broadway corridor.
BlueWave Express Car Wash Now Open on Broadway
78209’s newest self-service car wash is not open on Broadway near loop 410! This state-of-the-art car wash brings a fresh wave of convenience and shine to the neighborhood, offering drivers a fast, affordable, and eco-friendly way to keep their vehicles spotless. With an emphasis on quality and customer care, BlueWave Express is committed to making every wash a five-star experience — all while conserving water through their advanced, sustainable wash systems.
Guests can enjoy a range of unlimited wash memberships, free vacuum stations, and automated express lanes designed to get you back on the road in minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick rinse or a complete clean, BlueWave Express makes it easy to maintain that just-washed look yearround. Welcome to the neighborhood!
The Charity Ball Association: Over 70 Years of Hope and Impact
Since 1954, The Charity Ball Association (CBA) of San Antonio has been “funding hope, changing lives, and shaping futures for the children of Bexar County.” What began as a grassroots movement of women called to action during World War II has evolved into one of the city’s most influential philanthropic organizations, raising more than $30 million to support local children’s charities.
This year’s Chrysanthemum Ball, themed “Storybook Garden,” was held on Thursday, October 16th at The Witte Museum offering an evening of elegance and purpose. For the first time in the event’s storied history, the gala introduced a “Featured Entertainer,” with Katharine McPhee headlining the night. Guests also enjoyed performances by DJ Lucy from Dallas and The San Antonio Academy Boys Chorale during cocktail hour.
In another exciting first, the evening included a Super Silent Auction alongside CBA’s traditional raffle and live auction, led by auctioneer Morgan Hopson of Fort Worth. Continuing a cherished tradition, the Cavender family once again donated a car for the raffle—an unbroken commitment spanning 56 years—alongside a Rolex watch generously contributed by Lee Michaels Fine Jewelry.
Over its 70+ year history, the Charity Ball Association’s 140 dedicated women have supported transformative projects across Bexar County—from funding 54 playgrounds to upgrading roofs, HVAC systems, technology, and security infrastructure for dozens of non-profit agencies. This year, CBA is proud to award over $1.3 million in grants.
As another chapter closes on this year’s Chrysanthemum Ball, the story of generosity continues to bloom—reminding San Antonio that hope, like a garden, flourishes when nurtured with love and purpose.
Let your gift be part of the story—support our cause by visiting www.cbaofsa.org
Charity Ball Association Board of Directors
Back row Left to Right: Kelly Kennedy, Laura Dawson, Lisa Thurmond, Nel Belt, Carrie Catalani, Josie Flesher, Amy Swaney
Front Row Left to Right: Katherine Hollimon, Jody Lutz, Kathleen LeFlore, Christy Ebrom
L-R: Lee Anne Hendry, Terrie Musselman, Nel Belt, Carrie Catalani
Suzanne and Dick Wade; Kelly and Stephen Fry
Laurie and John White, Jr. Bonnie Muecke, Tracy Williams, Jessica Worth, Lindsay Bolner
Nel Belt and John White, Jr.
Taylor Dawson, Mary Duane and Gene Dawson, Laura and Sam Dawson; Kendall Weaver, Michael Ferree, Gayla and Blaine Scheideman
Katharine McPhee
Stephanie and Bobby Cavender
Allison and Josh Zeller
Courtney and Chip Percy
Kelly Fellbaum, Laura Guglielmo, Tisha Beck
Katharine McPhee
BUSINESS PROFILE
By Elizabeth Bobbitt |
Photography by Lynn Yao
A Return to True Winemaking: Geraldine’s Natural Wines
When owner Travis Higdon returned to San Antonio after working in the corporate tech industry for twentyfive years, he noticed a significant gap in San Antonio’s wine market.
“When we moved to 78209 from Los Angeles, I noticed that we didn’t have a neighborhood wine shop. Back in LA, we had several super cute wine stores that had curated selections of wines that you didn’t often see in the grocery store. I really missed that, so I decided to open Geraldine’s,” Travis says.
Located at 5005 Broadway in one of Alamo Heights’ most historic shopping centers, readers will know Geraldine’s Natural Wines by its blue, Alamoshaped parapet that crowns one of 78209’s busiest thoroughfares. With Broadway Daily Bread next door and Cappy’s Restaurant nestled behind, Geraldine’s is the latest addition to a network of local businesses looking to foster 78209 community.
“A couple of weeks ago, I organized a retail block party, where we all got together to cross-promote our businesses. Cappy’s servers were sending people in here, and I had a wine tasting. It was a really successful event, and we aim to do it more often,” Travis says.
This month, Geraldine’s will be celebrating its oneyear anniversary with a day of specially selected wine tastings, craft beer offerings, and charcuterie boards.
“Our anniversary is on Saturday, November 15th. We are going to have a big, all-day party. The wine tastings will be hosted by several of my importers, who are very knowledgeable about their wines,” Travis says.
A Welcoming Boutique of Natural Wines
It was not until Travis was unexpectedly laid off from his job in the tech world that he decided to pursue his
passion for locally-sourced, natural wines.
“It took being laid off to realize that I didn’t want to go back into the corporate world of Zoom meetings and performance reviews. I wanted to interact with people face to face and to be in charge of my own destiny. When I found this space right next to Cappy’s, I knew I was going to make Geraldine’s a reality. I couldn’t think of a better place for a wine shop,” Travis says.
Travis is most passionate about sharing his ethos of “natural wine” with the wider 78209 community. “Natural wine” is produced using sustainable, organic, or biodynamic farming practices. Some of Travis’s labels are locally sourced, while others come from winemaking regions across the globe. Most of the wines that customers can find at Geraldine’s are not available anywhere else in San Antonio.
“In comparison with the mass-produced wine available in grocery stores, the wine in my shop is authentic and clean with no additives such as artificial coloring, added sugars, or lab-cultivated yeasts. These wines have been made the exact same way that wine has been produced for thousands of years,” Travis says.
The Alchemy of Winemaking
Walking into Gerladine’s shop feels like coming into a knowledgeable neighbor’s wine cellar. Travis hosts weekend wine tastings in order to introduce his customers to new labels, and he can often be found sampling importers’ latest vintages. One of Travis’s most recent purchases is a Georgian wine aged in a “qvevri,” a specially designed clay pot that is one of the oldest winemaking vessels on earth.
“I don’t want the shop to feel dark and masculine like a steakhouse. I want it to be airy and welcoming, because it’s important to me that people aren’t afraid
of coming here. I’m trying to make it as easy as possible for people who are learning about wine to feel like we will take care of them,” Travis says.
When asked about the allure of working in the wine industry, Travis is fascinated by the natural process of winemaking itself and the opportunities for conviviality that a bottle of wine presents to customers.
“There’s an alchemy to winemaking that is really interesting. It’s a natural product that undergoes a biological transformation, and I love how it’s a beverage that only grows more beautiful with time. As a resident of 78209, I’ve been able to meet so many of my own neighbors who have come into the shop, and we have made connections through our shared interest in wine. That’s been the best part of opening Geraldine’s,” Travis says.
Geraldine’s offers delivery services to Alamo Heights, Terrell Hills, and Olmos Park. Free delivery over $100.
Order online, or register for Geraldine’s Wine Club at www.shopgeraldines.com
MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR
By Elizabeth Bobbitt | Photography by Lynn Yao
Connecting the Community Through Chamber Music:
Ignacio Gallego Fernández and Marisa Bushman
For cellist Ignacio Gallego Fernández and violist Marisa Bushman, art is a social service. It was their shared vocation as classical musicians that eventually brought them to 78209 and led to their co-founding of Agarita, a performing arts institution offering nocost programming and educational opportunities that make classical music more accessible by reinventing the traditional concert experience.
“Music has to provide a service to a community beyond entertainment. At Agarita, we have found that the best way to connect with the community is to build bridges with other artistic disciplines,” Ignacio says, who serves as Educational Director.
Since its foundation in 2018, Ignacio and Marisa, along with their co-founders, pianist Daniel Anastasio and
violinist Sarah Silver Manzke, have mounted over fifty concerts per year, engaging over 25,000 people in their 2024-2025 season alone.
“We like to provide surprising entry points into classical music for our audience. Let’s say that you’re not a big fan of string instruments, but you love fashion. You might come to see a show that pairs classical music with fashion design. We want to dispel the notion of classical music as the sole preserve of the ivory tower. Fun and spontaneity are part of our model,” Marisa says, who serves as Executive Director.
In upcoming months, Agarita is hosting almost weekly concert events in collaboration with an array of worldclass artists. On Wednesday, November 5th, Agarita will perform “Places in South Texas,” a collection of specially
commissioned works by the Composers Alliance of San Antonio. This event features music inspired by cultural sites in the city, such as San Fernando Cathedral or the McNay Courtyard. Later in 2026, Agarita will release their debut album, in collaboration with world-famous guitarist Pablo Sáinz-Villegas, with a concert at the Tobin Center for Performing Arts. For more information on upcoming events, visit www.agarita.org.
Making Music in 78209
Ignacio and Marisa met in a Music History Review class during their master’s degree at Indiana University. A native of Toledo, Spain, Ignacio entered the master’s program at Indiana by way of a scholarship at the Manhattan School of Music. Born in New York, Marisa earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Viola Performance from the University of California, Los Angeles.
“We met early in the morning during the first week of school. I saw Ignacio, and I knew I liked him right away. We will be celebrating our twentieth anniversary this month,” Marisa says.
They moved to San Antonio in 2010, when Marisa came to work with the San Antonio Symphony. Since moving to Alamo Heights in 2012, the neighborhood has served not only as their home base but also as an important foundation point in their professional journeys.
“We are hoping that our four-year-old son, Felix, will attend the Dual-Language Program at Howard Early Childhood Center next year,” Ignacio says, who served as the director of the Strings program at Alamo Heights High School for five years.
“Growing up in Spain, I lived in a small town where you could go outside and play or visit friends without having to drive, as we often do in the United States. I love the walkability of Alamo Heights. There is such a sense of neighborhood identity. We know each neighbor in our street, and we look after each other,” Ignacio says.
Ignacio and Marisa are visiting Alamo Heights ISD this semester as part of Agarita’s “Write to Music” educational initiative, where students are invited to respond creatively to classical pieces.
“We are hoping to collaborate with English teachers at Alamo Heights as part of this program,” Ignacio says.
Some of Ignacio’s and Marisa’s favorite concert venues are located at much-loved community centers in 78209. During theCOVID pandemic, Agarita organized an outdoor concert at the Alamo Heights Swimming Pool.
“We worked with Texas artist Natalie Botello to create an underwater installation. Our instruments were connected to underwater speakers so that the audience could listen to our music in the pool,” Marisa says.
No matter how Ignacio and Marisa are working to bring classical music to the community, they have one important message: everybody is welcome.
“It’s all about connection at the end of the day,” Ignacio says.
Improve Your Home’s Look and Value Instantly With A New Garage Door
A new garage door is not only one of the fastest and easiest home improvement projects, it also recoups the highest resale value when it’s time to sell a home, according to a new report by Remodeling Magazine.
The magazine’s 2025 Cost vs. Value Report shows that a new garage door in the San Antonio area offers a 272 percent return on investment, up from 149 percent in 2024.
With its relatively low cost, fast installation and a variety of options and materials available, a new garage door is a great choice for a home improvement project.
“A new garage door is like an instant facelift for your home,” said Randy Oliver, president of Hollywood-Crawford Garage Door Company. “It can make a huge difference in the curb appeal and beauty of any home.”
Modernizing your garage door can also help reduce energy costs. Insulated garage doors are becoming more popular, helping to keep garages cooler and reducing the heat that enters the residence.
Residential garage doors are available in a wide variety of styles, colors, materials, and insulation values, with looks for every exterior and price ranges for every budget. Homeowners can choose from materials including aluminum, glass, faux wood, real wood, steel with a stained wood look, insulated steel, fiberglass, and even vinyl garage doors for harsh environments.
Hollywood-Crawford displays more than 40 garage door styles in its San Antonio showroom.
To learn more about how a garage door can quickly, easily and affordably boost any home’s curb appeal, visit online at www.hollywoodcrawford.com or call 210-494-3434.
From the Designer
Our clients purchased a new home which was new for them but built in the ’90s — and overdue for an update. We opened up the kitchen area into the sunken living room to make the space more open and less compartmentalized so that you can dance from the kitchen right into the dining room. Also, we made a complete transformation to the laundry room and bedrooms throughout home.
Alamo Heights Home Remastered Molly Sowry
Vice President Virtuoso Builders
Features:
● Open floor plan
● Custom cabinetry
● Walk-in pantry
● Quartz countertops
● Custom-stained hardwood floors
● New lighting
● Updated laundry room
How does the design enhance the homeowner’s lifestyle while maintaining a refined feel?
The design was crafted for a multigenerational family moving into together. It’s expansive yet intimately composed so several cooks can be working at once and every element was considered.
What innovations—smart technology, lighting, sustainability—were integrated into the design?
We installed Energy efficient appliances, new windows offering more natural light and are energy efficient, automated LED lighting, and installed repurposed brick at the area where we closed in a window. For the wood floors, rather than removing the existing hardwoods and purchasing new, we kept existing wood flooring
and only laced in new flooring where old damaged pieces were and then refinished all of the wood flooring for consistency.
How did you ensure that the spaces feel both elevated and comfortable for daily living?
The palette our client chose of black and white with gold accents establishes a bold yet timeless design with the warmth of light stained hardwood floors and the classic look of marble backsplash.
Is there a “showstopper” space in this home? What makes it special?
The island is quite the centerpiece with the quartz waterfall panels yet, despite the bold look, the design remains livable with a drop down table for daily use on one side and custom storage on the other. Every drawer had a purpose and the height of
the table was important to this family so everything was completely customized for them.
How does the home’s design elevate entertaining or gathering spaces?
Originally, the house was dark and compartmentalized. In order to open up the kitchen into an adjacent Living Room a wall and home bar had to come out. On the opposite side of the old kitchen, a large walk in pantry was in the middle of the room so this had to be moved. We also borrowed room from an unused Powder Bathroom near by. The new design created an expansive kitchen without any obstructions and plenty of room for two islands with two sinks, a new walk-in pantry, and easy flow from one area into the other perfect for gathering with just the family or entertaining guests.
September 2025 78209 Market Snapshot + San Antonio Ranked a Top Buyer’s Market
By Bruce X. Forey, REALTOR®
As fall arrives, 78209’s housing market reflects a mix of price momentum and slowing buyer activity.
September’s median home price climbed to $640,000, a sharp rise from $496,500 in August. The average price also increased to $721,193, up from $620,358 the previous month. This jump suggests higher-value properties are selling—but that’s only part of the story.
Despite these gains, sales pace continues to slow. The median days on market rose to 87, up from 64 in August—marking the third straight month of increase. Homes are taking longer to sell, a signal that buyers are negotiating harder or waiting on the sidelines.
Inventory remained relatively steady, with 178 active listings, just a slight drop from August’s 182. The months of inventory held at 6.6, indicating a balanced—but shifting— market.
Notably, price-per-square-foot jumped to $317, up from $261 in August. However, the median percent of last list price slipped to 93.7%, continuing a three-month slide. This stat highlights the reality behind the
numbers: many sellers are reducing list prices before going under contract.
Even with fewer closings—22 in September, down from 24 in August—the total dollar volume reached $15.87 million, showing that buyers are still purchasing premium homes, but more selectively.
Takeaway
78209’s market shows strength in pricing, but signs of friction in buyer behavior. Properties that are priced well and presented effectively still move—but days on market and final sale prices suggest negotiation is key. Sellers should stay flexible, and buyers should act decisively when they see value.
San Antonio Is One of the Best Places to Buy Right Now
According to a recent Redfin report, San Antonio is now the sixth-strongest buyer’s market in the country. The data shows there are more than twice as many sellers as buyers in the area, giving buyers increased negotiating power. Nationwide, the ratio of sellers to buyers reached 36.7% in September 2025—second only to June of the same year, which posted a slightly higher gap of 36.9%.
What defines a buyer’s market? Redfin considers any market with over 10% more sellers than buyers to qualify. That threshold is easily surpassed in San Antonio and across the Sun Belt, where a post pandemic-fueled building boom and population shift from higher-cost areas like California and New York led to rapid construction. Now, with affordability strained by high mortgage rates,
many of those new homes sit unsold for longer periods of time.
Interestingly, while home prices in buyer’s markets are still climbing, they do so at a slower pace—up just 1.3% year-over-year versus 3.8% in seller’s markets.
That doesn’t mean it’s easy to buy. High interest rates continue to price out many would-be homeowners. But for those who qualify, opportunity abounds. Buyers can often negotiate lower sale prices, sellerpaid closing costs, and other concessions.
OF ALAMO HEIGHTS
store1317@theupsstore.com theupsstore.com/1317
Lenders I work with offer valuable tools such as interest rate buydown programs and down payment assistance—helpful in offsetting the higher monthly payments today and refinancing when rates drop.
In today’s market, partnering with a datadriven, negotiation-savvy real estate agent is key. I monitor local market shifts and understand what it takes to make an offer stand out while protecting your budget. Whether you’re just starting your home search or re-entering the market, I’d be happy to help you strategize a successful purchase.
Bruce is a skilled real estate agent serving 78209 and beyond. He excels at helping client’s market and sell their property, find a dream home or discover investment opportunities. He offers advanced training in luxury and historic homes, military relocation and more. bruceXforey.com email: bruce@bruceforey.com.
Considering Assisted Living? Here are Six Key Features to Look For!
By Terri Landez, The Village at Incarnate Word
If you or a loved one are exploring senior living options, knowing what to look for can make all the difference. At The Village at Incarnate Word, we’ve spent 37 years helping families find a supportive, comfortable place for their next chapter. As you begin this journey, here are six essential features to look for in an assisted living community:
1. Compassionate, Quality Care
One of the main reasons people choose assisted living is to receive help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management. At The Village, staff are available 24/7 for whatever your loved one may need. Care plans are personalized, and Concierge services and Sisters Care caregivers are available if extra help is needed. Higher levels of care are available onsite, including Memory Care and Skilled Nursing & Rehabilitation. Onsite physical therapy is also available through Select Rehabilitation.
2. Safe & Serene Environment
A community that feels safe and supportive is just as important as beautiful surroundings. The Village offers a calm, homelike setting enriched with spiritual support to bring comfort as residents age. Located in the heart of Alamo Heights, we make it easy for residents to stay close to loved ones while enjoying their independence. Each assisted living apartment is thoughtfully designed with grab bars, pull cords, and emergency response systems to ensure safety, accessibility, and comfort.
3. Engaging Activities & Wellness Programs
One of the top benefits of assisted living is the opportunity to participate in activities or try new hobbies. At The Village, we offer a robust monthly activities calendar including daily fitness classes taught by a dedicated instructor, outings to local attractions, art classes, happy hours, game nights, and more. Lifelong learners will especially enjoy the unique opportunity to audit classes at the University of the Incarnate Word, located just next door.
4. Maintenance-Free Living
Daily tasks like cooking, cleaning, and home maintenance can become challenging with age — but a quality assisted living community will take care of it all. The Village provides nutritious, chefprepared meals daily in our Main Dining Room and Bistro, weekly housekeeping and laundry, 24/7 on-call maintenance, and transportation services upon request. Residents can also enjoy our inhouse salon for haircuts, styling, manicures, spa pedicures, men’s shaves, and more.
5. Unique Amenities
You may be surprised by what some assisted living communities offer! As a spiritually enriched community, The Village has FOUR onsite chapels for daily Mass, Adoration, Bible studies, and nondenominational prayer services. Residents will enjoy swimming in our indoor heated pool, exercising in the wellness center, gardening in our courtyards, and exploring the nearby Headwaters Sanctuary nature trails. There’s truly something for everyone!
Visit Us Today
If you’re considering assisted living, we invite you to tour Alphonse House at The Village at Incarnate Word. Call (210) 829-7561 for a free consultation and mention 78209 Magazine to waive the $1,750 community fee now through December 1, 2025!
SCHOOL NEWS
Powering the Profile - The Junior School
Katherine Maldonado, STEM and science teacher at Alamo Heights Junior School, was recognized at the September Board Meeting for Powering the Profile and embodying the AHISD Profile of a Learner.
She guides students to “seek knowledge and understanding.”
Alamo Heights Learners: Develop a Healthy Sense of Self Seek Knowledge and Understanding Think Critically and Creatively Communicate and Collaborate Employ Skills for Life Engage Socially and Globally
Throughout the year, the District highlights educators who instill these attributes in students at all campuses and all grade levels.
Maldonado joined AHISD in August 2024 and previously has served as a high school teacher and elementary STEM teacher.
From Tacos to CalaveritasStudents Explore Culture Through Art and Food
It’s been a fun and busy week for Saint Mary’s Hall Upper School Students! Students in Senora Diaz’s Cultural Identity, Community & Culinary Traditions of the Hispanic World and Dr. Hicks’ Echoes in the Borderlands: An Interdisciplinary Study of Selena Quintanilla took their learning beyond the classroom on Monday, October 13, with a visit to the Naco Mexican Food Truck. There, they met with owners Francisco Estrada and Lizzeth Martínez to explore the rich intersection of food, culture, and community. As they sampled traditional Mexico City and Texas-Mexico borderlands cuisine, students engaged in meaningful conversations about how culinary traditions reflect identity and history, deepening their understanding of the Hispanic experience through firsthand storytelling and flavor.
The interdisciplinary learning continued on Wednesday, October 15, as students from Echoes in the Borderlands and
Spanish III joined together to celebrate Día de los Muertos. Led by Senora Diaz, the class explored the ancient Aztec and Maya roots of the holiday and its evolution through Christian influences. Students reflected on the cultural significance of honoring loved ones and the celebration of life, culminating in the creation of personalized calaveritas— miniature sugar skulls that symbolized remembrance and creativity. The hands-on activity brought history and tradition to life, reinforcing the power of cultural expression in shaping community and identity.
The Human Edge in SAT Prep
Real growth happens through conversation — not automation.
There’s no shortage of online SAT prep tools— many excellent for practice and review. But they can’t replace the human element: the modeling, conversation, and connection that happen in person, in a small group or one-onone, with teachers who see how students think and can respond in real time.
The difference comes from immediate feedback and shared exploration. A screen can’t recognize confusion on a student’s face, notice thought patterns, or spark insight in the moment—those are moments that happen naturally in person. Students don’t just practice; they internalize strategies and develop habits that make sense to them.
In our in-person SAT courses for Reading and Writing, students see how skilled readers actively engage with texts and how writers craft precise, stylish language. They are encouraged to ask questions, notice patterns, and think critically about each passage or prompt. We model curiosity and a genuine love for learning, helping students discover the joy in reading and writing, not just the mechanics of the test. Studies show that students retain more when they actively engage with texts rather than relying solely on online practice.
SAT prep in this environment goes beyond scores. It cultivates sharper thinkers, more confident writers, and learners who leave sessions feeling capable, curious, and ready for the next challenge.
1:1 and Small Group Tutoring
Reading • Writing • Test Prep
Engaging, effective SAT strategies that get results.
Catalyst Writing & Education Igniting minds Fueling futures
catalystwritingeducation@gmail.com (210) 845-6716
Johnny Kothmann, DVM Chris LaBrie, DVM
FOR THE LOVE OF ANIMALS
Prepping for Winter with Feral Cats
By Nadia De La Garza
“Winter is coming!” – well, at least cooler temperatures are arriving here in San Antonio. And as we’ve seen, unpredictable weather can happen. As an advocate of pets, The Animal Defense League of Texas wants to provide you with a few tips on how to keep your outdoor cats safe, warm, and healthy during the winter months. So here are some solutions for our feral friends to survive the winter - with your help!
According to tractive.com – you should:
1. Provide shelter by building something out of wood, like a doghouse, or buy a ready-made or easy-toassemble cat shelter. A little house will help your feral cats find a warm place to snuggle down.
The best material to lay on the floor of the shelter box is straw. Straw repels moisture and is a good insulator; cats can burrow into it to stay warm.
2. Provide lots of food: these cats expend extra energy to stay warm, so give them more food than you would in warmer weather.
a. Consider investing in heated bowls.
b. Offer dry kibble and lots of it!
3. Provide water: Both food and water should be in a location that will accommodate both you and the cat. As mentioned above, heated bowls can keep the water from freezing. These heated bowls plug into an electrical outlet, so consider how you will set this up outdoors to accommodate the plug and cord safely.
Though the Animal Defense League will always advocate for indoor pets, feral cats roam our neighborhoods and deserve care, too. Our goal is to help you keep them safe, healthy, and vaccinated, prevent the spread of disease, and keep them from having new litters. For more information about how you can help a feral cat get vaccinated and spayed/ neutered, visit adltexas.org.
ALAMO HEIGHTS BAPTIST CHURCH
6501 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-9539
Services: Sunday 11:00am Wednesday 6:30pm Praise and Prayer
ALAMO HEIGHTS
CHRISTIAN CHURCH
6435 N. New Braunfels Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 828-5728 alamoheightscc.org Services: Sunday: 10:50am
ALAMO HEIGHTS
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
6201 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-0271 alamoheightspres.com Services: Sunday 8:30am and 11am
ALAMO HEIGHTS UNITED METHODIST CHURCH
825 E. Basse Road San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 826-3215 ahumc.org
Services: Sunday 8:30am, 9:30am and 11am
CHRIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH
510 Belknap Place
San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 736-3132 cecsa.org Services: Wednesday 11:00am, 6:00pm Sunday 7:30am, 9am, 11:00am, 5:00pm
CHRIST LUTHERAN CHURCH
6720 Broadway St. San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-3394 clcah.org Services: Sunday 8:30am and 10:30am
MOUNT CALVARY
LUTHERAN CHURCH
308 Mt. Calvary Drive
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-8748 mtcsa.org
Services: Sunday 8:30am and 11am
NORTHWOOD
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
518 Pike Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-7238
Services: Sunday mornings at 11am
CHURCH DIRECTORY
NORTHROCK CHURCH
ALAMO HEIGHTS
1540 Nacogdoches
San Antonio, TX 78209 northrocksa.com
Services: Sunday mornings at 10am, 11:30am
PEARL STREET CHURCH
400 Pearl Parkway
San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 504-8897
Services: 9:00am, 10:30am,12pm, 1:30pm
ST. ANDREW’S CHURCH & SCHOOL
722 Robinhood
San Antonio, TX 78209 standrews09.org 210-824-2465
Services: Traditional 9:15
Contemporary Worship 9:30 & 11:00am
ST. ANTHONY DE PADUA
CATHOLIC CHURCH
102 Lorenz Road
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 824-1743
stanthonydepadua.org
Services:
Monday thru Friday 9am, Saturday 5pm Sunday 7:00am, 8:30am (Spanish), 10:30am, 12:30pm
ST. DAVID’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH AND SCHOOL
1300 Wiltshire Ave. San Antonio, TX 78209 saintdavids.net (210) 824-2481
Services: Sundays at 8am & 10:30am
ST. LUKE’S EPISCOPAL CHURCH
11 Saint Luke’s Lane San Antonio, Texas 78209 slecsa.org - (210) 828-6425
Services:
Sunday 8am, 9am, 11am and 6pm Wednesday Eucharist at 8am during the school year
ST. PETER PRINCE OF THE APOSTLES CHURCH
111 Barilla Place
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-3367
stpeterprinceoftheapostles.org
Services: Saturday Mass 5:30pm Sunday 9am, 11am, and 5:30pm Tuesday and Thursday 7am Wednesday 5:30pm, Friday 8:00am
ST. PIUS X CATHOLIC CHURCH & SCHOOL
3303 Urban Crest Dr San Antonio TX 78209
(210) 824-0139
spxsa.church Services: Saturday - 4:30pm Sunday - 8:00am, 10:15am, 12:00 pm, 1:30pm (Sp), 5:00pm Daily Masses: Monday - 6:30pm Tuesday-Friday - 8:15am
TRINITY BAPTIST CHURCH
319 E. Mulberry San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 733-6201 trinitybaptist.org
Services:
Mulberry Service 9am Bible Study 10:15am TriPoint Service 11:30am
UNITY CHURCH
8103 Broadway San Antonio, TX 78209 unityofsa.org (210) 824-7351
Services: Sunday 11am
Children’s Church 11am
If you are unable to make it to a service, check your church website and see if they are livestreaming so that you can worship from home.
POLICE BLOTTER
Wanted Person
Driver stopped for a registration violation was found to have an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County for Assault: Family Violence, Married.
06/17/25
6700 blk. Broadway
Fraudulent Use Identifying Information
Unknown persons use a resident’s personal information to gain access to their bank account.
06/18/25
200 blk. Redwood
Emergency Detention
Officers performed a welfare check after receiving a call from a parent describing unusual behavior of an adult child; investigation determined the person was experiencing loss of mental abilities so was transported by EMS to a hospital for further evaluation.
06/20/25
100 blk. Arcadia
DWI
A person in control of a running vehicle was found to be under the influence of alcohol and impaired.
06/21/25
4800 blk. Broadway
Wanted Person
Driver stopped for equipment violations was found to have an ineligible driver’s license and an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County for a DWI Probation Violation.
06/21/25
5500 blk. Broadway
Wanted Person
Driver stopped for a registration violation had a driver’s license not eligible for renewal; further investigation revealed the driver had an active arrest warrant issued by Bexar County for Larceny.
06/23/25
4800 blk. Broadway
Emergency Detention
Officer on patrol stopped to investigate a male subject slumped against a closed business during late night hours; investigation determined the subject was sleeping and after waking up did not recall his name, the day of the week or where he was; subject was cleared by EMS and transported to a hospital by PD for evaluation and treatment.
06/24/25
4700 blk. Broadway
Theft, Motor Vehicle
Unlocked vehicle parked in a driveway overnight was reported stolen; recovered in San Antonio.
06/26/25
600 blk. Patterson
Theft by Embezzlement
Employee was found to have misapplied his employer’s business funds into unknown accounts; remains under investigation.
06/26/25
5700 Broadway
AHPD CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION
6116 Broadway
San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-2164
Fax (210) 822-7111
Theft
Contracted painter requested several payments in advance in order to buy materials; painter has not performed work and now is unable to be located.
06/26/25
100 blk. Fenimore
Credit Card Abuse
Bank customer reported unknown person(s) had hacked into her account and made unauthorized on-line purchases.
06/27/25
5100 blk. Broadway
Emergency Detention
Female subject transported to a hospital for further evaluation after making homicidal and suicidal threats.
06/27/25
700 blk. Viesca
Attempted Theft / Motor Vehicle
Vehicle forcibly entered and an unsuccessful attempt was made to defeat the ignition lock.
06/28/25
100 blk. Arcadia
Theft (shoplifting)
Male subject entered a store and placed numerous articles of merchandise into a bag and left without rendering payment.
06/29/25
4600 blk. Broadway
Theft / Shoplifting
During a review of video surveillance recordings a male subject was recorded shoplifting a large amount of cosmetic items.
07/28/25
4600 blk. Broadway
Emergency Detention
A female subject was contacted after she expressed her intention to harm herself; officers determined the subject was in mental crisis and had already injured her arm; subject transported to a hospital.
07/28/25
6100 blk. Broadway
Theft
Package delivered to a porch was stolen.
07/28/25
100 blk. W Oakview
Just a Reminder:
Please Don’t Drink & Drive. Download these apps for your local ride sharing services at the App Store or Google Play. Or call a cab
09 EATS - H oliday Meals
As the holiday season approaches, restaurants and caterers across 78209 are serving up festive flavors and stress-free dining options for families and friends. From elegant prixfixe dinners to cozy take-home feasts, these local favorites make it easy to savor the season—without the cleanup. We recommend you check with these locations closer to the holidays to confirm specific menu and pricing details!
BISTR09
6106 Broadway, 78209
A classic French brasserie in Alamo Heights, BISTR09 is the reinvention of Chef Damien Watel’s famed Bistro Vatel, in partnership with Chef Lisa Astorga Watel. With its refined ambiance and French-inspired menu, it offers an elegant option for a lingering holiday dinner in the neighborhood, with holiday specials sure to impress! www.bistro09.com
Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar
255 E Basse Rd Bldg E-Suite 200
Located at Alamo Quarry, Fleming’s pairs USDA Prime steaks, top-tier wines and handcrafted cocktails in a sleek, upscale setting. For the holidays, they offer a special two-course menu starting around $59 per guest. www.flemingssteakhouse.com
Boiler House Texas Grill & Wine Garden
312 Pearl Pkwy Bldg 3
While just outside of 78209 at the Pearl, this destination remains extremely accessible and beloved. It’s housed in a historic industrial space and features gourmet TexasHill-Country fare paired with a rich wine list. Offering a “country-style” Thanksgiving dinner from 11 a.m.–8 p.m., it highlights cider-brined turkey, sausage-sage stuffing and truffle-whipped potatoes. www.boilerhousesa.com
Biga on the Banks
203 S St. Mary’s St.
A San Antonio fine-dining institution led by Chef Bruce Auden, Biga on the Banks is known for its creative contemporary American cuisine and River Walk view. Recognized for its refined cuisine, it’s a strong choice for a celebratory holiday dining experience. www.biga.com
premium cuts — from Certified Angus and aged grain-fed beef to exotic game — alongside an expansive selection of prepared sides, casseroles, and catering options. With the holiday season in mind, Cooper’s markets an extensive “holiday planning & catering” offering, inviting guests to preorder trays, sides and full meal-package components for Thanksgiving and festive gatherings. www.coopersmeatmarket.com
Frederick’s Restaurant
7701 Broadway
An elegant French-fusion fine dining spot on Broadway, Frederick’s blends French technique with Asian influences in a romantic setting. While the full Thanksgiving menu for 2025 is not yet published, the restaurant invites holiday reservations with the promise of a refined, celebratory dinner (noting “Don’t Forget To Book Your Holiday Parties Early!” www.fredericksrestaurantsa.com
The Hayden
4025 Broadway
A warm, all-day diner with quirky charm, The Hayden serves comforting classics and has built a reputation for stress-free holiday meals. For Thanksgiving this year, they are offering a to-go “Family Meal” package (serving ~6-8) or individual a-la-carte items, available for pickup ahead of the holiday. www.thehaydensa.com
Green Vegetarian Cuisine
255 E Basse Rd Suite 940
A plant-based comfort-food spot in the Alamo Quarry Market, Green Vegetarian Cuisine offers flavorful, 100% vegan dining in a friendly, casual setting. While closed on Thanksgiving Day itself, their catering/“Meals2Go” service could be an option for a vegan Thanksgiving alternative! www.eatatgreen.com
Tamales
Flats
This month’s Best Bet is coming to you from Tycoon Flats on Austin Highway! We got a jalapeño cheeseburger with fries and a Big Red, of course
Alamo Heights kinder and first grade students re-enact the Tom Thumb wedding.
courtesy of Alamo Heights Independent School District.
Photo
