78209 Magazine October 2025 by Las Tres Muchachas

by Suzanne

TAYLOR LANE

Welcome to the October edition of 78209 Magazine!

This month, we have two very exciting special features for you. First, we sat down with the Tri-Chair community leaders spearheading the Brackenrige Park Conservancy’s annual fundraising gala, to be held under the stars at Miraflores. The Miraflores Party in the Park marks a monumental step in the revitalization of this secret garden in the heart of Alamo Heights!

Next, we are excited to announce the launch of “09 Elevated”, a section of the magazine designed to share unique home design, elevated lifestyle, and spotlight our aesthetic commercial and residential communities. This month, Melissa Fields, CEO + Principal Designer at Shades of Gray Design Studio, takes us behind the scenes of one of her recent hone design projects. I can’t wait for you to see!

We would also like to wish a very happy 99th birthday to our beloved Witte Museum this month! With a year of celebrations to come, we were honored to be able to talk with Witte CEO & President, Dr. Michelle Everidge Cuellar in our business profile this month.

Happy Fall!

Photo

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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CONTRIBUTORS

BRUCE X. FOREY

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Enterprises (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. 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.

78209

Tres Muchachas

Cover Photo

Photography by Lynn Yao

Writer

LYNN

Photographer

ELIZABETH BOBBITT Writer

About The Cover

14 Business Profile

Celebrate 100 years of community, science, and culture as the Witte Museum marks its centennial in October 2026. Find out more as the museum prepares for its birthday bash and upcoming exhibits.

18 Meet Your Neighbor

Meet Michelli and Tim Ramon, who are relishing the beauty of their 78209 forever home after years of hard work and big dreams.

28 Special Feature

Take a step inside this redesigned Alamo Heights home. A color-drenched, moody interior inspired by the Amalfi Coast, and bringing the outdoors inside, nestled in a community established in 1922 right off the golf course.

OCTOBER 2025

This month’s cover was taken by the talented photographer, Lynn Yao! Lynn is the newest member of the 78209 Magazine team, and we are so grateful to have her and share her work with you!

In celebration of the Witte Museum’s 99th birthday this month, we are highlighting one of our favorite spots in the main atrium. In the back left corner, these prehistoric sea creatures appear to be swimming through the ocean. Floating above head, it’s a magical spot in the museum!

Celebrate with us this month, and take a trip to the Witte to explore this, and so much more!

IN THE LOOP

Adair Kitchen Set to Open in October

The Highly Anticipated Eatery, Adair Kitchen, Is Set To Launch This Month!

Adair Kitchen, an all-day-dining restaurant with a comfort food menu marked by a commitment to quality ingredients, will take up residence at 4108 Broadway. Just north of downtown and in close proximity to Alamo Heights, the location is an ideal fit for a concept that takes diners from breakfast (farm-fresh egg dishes, chicken and waffles, breakfast tacos, and a coffee and juice bar) to lunch (salads, grain bowls, sandwiches, burgers, tacos and wraps) and dinner (steak frites, grilled salmon, pecan-crusted baked chicken and green chile chicken enchiladas). The 4,000-square-foot site, currently undergoing extensive renovations, will be the company’s third Adair Kitchen.

The San Antonio Los Tios will be unveiled in a 5,500-SF space located at 4820 Broadway in a former La Madeleine. A Houston Tex-Mex legacy brand – famous for its signature puffy queso (a balloonshaped, deep-fried corn tortilla deliciously doused in its namesake cheese sauce) and for introducing the Bayou City to the pleasures of the frozen margarita – Los Tios joined the Adair portfolio in 2000 and has grown to six restaurants. Featuring hand-crafted dishes invested with Tex-Mex authenticity, it has been a fixture on the city’s dining scene since 1970.

IN THE LOOP

Introducing Christian Boudreaux, PA-C Certified Physician Assistant

Westlake Dermatology Alamo Heights

Christian received his Master of Science degree in Physician Assistant Studies from the University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine in Tampa, graduating cum laude, with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from the University of Florida in Gainesville.

Prior to joining Westlake Dermatology, Christian completed the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants’ Diplomate Fellowship. He brings

extensive experience diagnosing and treating skin disorders, performing excisions and repairs, and administering Superficial Radiation Therapy.

He is also experienced in a variety of cosmetics, including Botox, dermal fillers, Sculptra, and laser treatments. These non-surgical treatments are fast and relatively painless, requiring little to no recovery time. His expertise allows him to customize each procedure to suit the unique facial anatomy and aesthetic goals of his patients, resulting in naturallooking, rejuvenated appearances. In addition to reducing fine lines and wrinkles, these treatments can enhance facial volume, improve skin texture, and restore a youthful glow. He stays current with the latest techniques and innovations in aesthetic medicine, ensuring that his patients receive the most effective and advanced care available.

Christian is certified by the National Commission of Certification of Physician Assistants and maintains a membership with the Society of Dermatology Physician Assistants (SDPA) to continue his commitment to education in healthcare. Through ongoing professional development, Christian’s dedication not only enhances his clinical expertise but also ensures that his patients receive the highest standard of care. He is passionate about patient education and believes in empowering individuals with the knowledge and tools needed to make informed decisions about their skin health.

He is currently accepting both new medical and cosmetic patients. Call (210) 802-0085 to schedule an appointment with Christian at our Alamo Heights location: 5500 Broadway St. Suite R100.

www.westlakedermatology.com/contact-us/locations/san-antonio/

Monarch Butterfly & Pollinator Festival Returns for it’s Ten Year Anniversary

The 10th Annual Monarch Butterfly & Pollinator Festival will be held on Saturday, October 18th from 9am to 2pm at Brackenridge Park right next to the Zoo entrance!

Tag monarch butterflies and transform into a pollinator for the day as you immerse yourself in an educational playland to celebrate the monarch butterfly, pollinators, and the ecosystems that sustain both them and us. Over 40 educational partners will provide hands-on, nature-based experiences for children and adults to over 10,000 attendees.

The mission of the Monarch Butterfly & Pollinator Festival is to celebrate and educate our community about the monarch butterfly, pollinators, and the ecosystems that sustain both them and us. The festival inspires children and “grown-up kids” of all ages to engage and connect with the natural world around them by immersing themselves in an educational playland that cultivates compassion and sparks behavioral change.

This community endeavor is held in partnership with Blooming with Birdie and Project Bloom, and supports the Mayor’s Monarch Pledge and the city of San Antonio as a Monarch Champion City.

BUSINESS PROFILE

By Elizabeth Bobbitt |

Photography by Lynn Yao

Curating Moments of Discovery at the Witte Museum

For many in 78209 and beyond, the Witte Museum is a beloved fixture of San Antonio’s museum circuit. From the Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery, where visitors can marvel at the footprints of an Acrocanthosaurus recovered from Government Canyon Natural State Area, to the nationally-celebrated “Black Cowboys: An American Story” exhibit, the Witte works to bring Texas’ diverse stories to life.

As the museum prepares to celebrate its 100th anniversary in 2026, CEO and President Michelle Cuellar Everidge, PhD, is at the helm of a blockbuster program of exhibitions and interactive events that aim to preserve the museum’s original mission, while providing access to cutting-edge scholarship in paleontology, archeology, and history.

“The museum was founded in 1926 by Ellen Schulz Quillin, a schoolteacher and botanist, who brought the idea of ‘learning by doing’ to the museum. We want the Witte to be a place where visitors feel transformed by their visit, whether that’s through an immersive experience or by hearing a story they’ve never heard before,” Everidge says.

Everidge and her team are poised to deepen the role that the museum plays as a nexus of scientific and historical discovery.

“We want to be able to share these discoveries more widely. While much of this research is conducted at universities, we have families who are here all the time, and we are really excited to be able to provide access to these new findings,” Everidge says.

Celebrating the Witte’s 100th Birthday

Next year’s centennial celebrations will include a year-long schedule of exhibitions and related events specifically curated to honor the Witte’s

first one hundred years and to set the stage for its future growth. These events will provide a rare glimpse into the museum’s vast collection.

“The museum houses close to 400,000 artifacts, but we only show 1% of what our collection holds. These exhibits will allow us to tell new stories with artifacts that we have not been able to display until now,” Everidge says.

The Witte’s centennial celebrations will kick off next October with a birthday bash marking the anniversary of the museum’s opening.

“We will invite the community to celebrate our history with music, dancing, food, and activities. It’s going to be a big party,” Everidge says.

Next spring, the museum will mount its “Witte Museum: 100 Years” exhibit, based on Marise McDermott’s upcoming book, The Witte Museum: 100 Years of Inspiration, Innovation, and Resilience.

“We are telling the story of the Witte through the people who made the museum what it is today. This exhibit will display treasures from the collection tracing the history of the museum’s development over time,” Everidge says. “Adventures in Texas Deep Time” will spotlight the scientific research currently being conducted at the museum.

“It’s going to be about the latest paleontological and archeological findings that are happening here at the Witte. It tackles how our scholars are using the latest technology in these fields to make groundbreaking finds right here

in San Antonio. For example, we have a mosasaur – an aquatic reptile from the late Cretaceous period – found in a creek bed in the city,” Everidge says.

The Witte’s centennial year will also see the museum host two traveling exhibits from the American Museum of Natural History, entitled “Unseen Oceans: An Exploration of the Deep” and “Pterosaurs: Flight in the Age of Dinosaurs.”

“We will have fifteen pterosaurs hanging from the ceiling in the Mays Family Center, where we will be able to introduce San Antonians to flight in the age of the dinosaurs,” Everidge says.

A Museum with a Mission

When asked to define the Witte’s wider role within the community, Everidge’s message is clear: the museum aims to inspire visitors to shape the future of Texas through transformative and relevant experiences of nature, science, and culture.

“Looking to our next one hundred years, it’s important to think about all of the people who came to the Witte as kids but maybe haven’t visited again since then,” Everidge says.

As the Witte’s centennial year approaches, Everidge is extending an invitation of welcome to those who once pulled up to the front of the museum on a school bus.

“The Witte is your museum, and you are part of its story,” Everidge says.

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOR

Elizabeth Bobbitt | Photography by Lynn Yao

THE HOUSE WITH THE PINK FRONT DOOR: A House of Dreams for the Ramon Family

For Michelli and Tim Ramon, their vibrant, eclectic home represents the culmination of years of hard work and big dreams. Built in 1941 and lit with the glow of purple fairy lights, their house celebrates the realization of one of their most cherished aspirations.

“My husband and I are both first-generation college graduates. My dad was a migrant worker, and he would put us in his truck when we were little and drive us to 78209. We would go up and down these streets, and he would tell us that if we worked really hard, we might be able to live in this neighborhood one day. Buying this house was our dream come true,” Michelli says.

When the Ramon’s son, Buster, began taking piano lessons at the home of a 78209 neighbor, Michelli unknowingly stumbled upon the house that would become her family’s much-loved home.

“When we first moved to Alamo Heights, we were living in a tiny bungalow, and my son took piano lessons here. As we walked up the sidewalk to Buster’s first piano lesson, I knew this was the house of my dreams. I told Buster’s piano teacher that if her family was ever interested in selling their home, I would buy it. It turned out they were looking to downsize, and we ended up buying each other’s houses,” Michelli says.

Buster’s piano teacher gifted her piano to the Ramon’s, which still stands in a corner of their sitting room. This unlikely story of community connection is what the Ramons most value about living in 78209.

“We love that our son can climb over the fence in our backyard to go visit his friend,” Tim says.

Living in the 78209 community is also a poignant reminder of Michelli’s father, who passed away before the Ramons moved to Alamo Heights.

“Living in our house helps me feel connected to my dad and the lessons that he taught me. He would be so excited to see us living here,” Michelli adds.

Living, Working, and Writing in ‘09

While Tim works from home in clinical research, Michelli owns Bird and Branch, a therapy office located on Broadway that specializes in treating women’s mental health. Her concierge practice is deeply rooted in the friendships and support Michelli has found in the Alamo Heights community.

“I became a social worker in 2004, and I met Stephanie Hughes when we worked together at Alamo Heights High School. Stephanie worked as a guidance counselor, and I was the wellness coordinator. In 2011, I opened Bird and Branch, and Stephanie and Amber Meegan joined the practice in 2023. I have a wonderful interconnectedness with all of my partners. My daughter, Cameron, also works part-time with us,” Michelli says.

In the spring of this year, Michelli published her first book, A Book for Girls. It is a bright pink volume, full of lessons

and inspirations that Michelli has collected in her therapy practice over the years.

“My book is structured as if a self-help manual and a poetry book had a baby. It contains all of the wisdom I’ve gleaned from the women I’ve treated in therapy,” Michelli says.

Savoring the Beauty of Neighborhood Life

Now that they are firmly fixed in their ideal home, Michelli and Tim are dedicated to relishing each moment of their life in 78209.

“We want to slow down and enjoy each other and what’s in front of us. This is where it’s at and where we want to be,” Tim says.

Since moving in two years ago, the Ramons have already hosted a family wedding, holiday celebrations, baby showers, and a poetry night.

“Everything happens here. It’s the party house -- the place where everyone meets,” Tim says.

On their favorite slow days, the Ramons can hear a quintessential Alamo Heights sound: the distant cadences of the high school band practicing in the early morning.

“We love hearing the band play. Even though our son has never actually attended Alamo Heights, he feels very connected to this special community. He loves being a mule,” Michelli says.

Behind the Design with Melissa Fields

CEO + Principal Designer

Shades of Gray Design Studio

Our clients live within the Oak Hills Country Club. Their backyard is on the 17th hole of the golf course community that was established in 1922. The home is surrounded by beautiful and lush mature trees where whole families of deer routinely dart across the driveway. It doesn’t even feel like you’re in San Antonio!

3. 4.

natural surroundings, we decided to blend their indoor space with the outdoors in an elegant and fresh way. Blue, green, cream, and white was the color palette of choice with accents of black to provide a striking contrast.

09 09 ELEVATED 09 Elevated 1. 2.

Like many homeowners, our clients wanted to update and elevate their home in a way that would feel deeply personal and reflective of their everyday lives. Taking inspiration from the home’s

The living room’s backdrop was their stunning backyard, so we kept that view center stage, creating a neutral, calming space with pops of color in the chairs, throw pillows, and rug. The fireplace was given a whole new face by cladding it with textured porcelain that had subtle marble veining.

What was once their formal dining room has been transformed into a flex room – this is where puzzles are put together while sipping on their morning coffee or lazy conversations after dinner. We carried the neutrals into this space where textured wallpaper covers the walls and the ceiling painted white to make the room feel more spacious. We replaced the unused double doors with a large picture window to let in more natural light.

From a Texas style poker room to our client’s home office, we didn’t want to play it safe in this space. We created a color-drenched, moody vibe inspired by their most favorite destination in the world – the Amalfi Coast, Italy. We are obsessed with Austin’s Kyle Bunting hide wall coverings, so we were certain that would be our custom mural! Sourcing from Texas businesses is

so important to us, so this was a no-brainer. Green was the color and seeing all the trees outside the windows made it feel like a treehouse. There were many custom elements in this room like the cabinetry, pillows, and (of course) Italian cowhide mural of the Amalfi Coast.

After we completed this project, our clients said they now feel like they wake up in a resort every day! This is why we love what we do. Transforming homes and improving our client’s quality of life is our absolute passion!

ON THE MARKET

78209 On the Market ReportOctober 2025

Preserving Character While Modernizing in Alamo Heights Living

By Bruce X. Forey, REALTOR®

In Alamo Heights, where homes often date back decades—or even a century—renovating means more than updating finishes. It’s about preserving the integrity of architectural character while adapting spaces for today’s lifestyles. With thoughtful planning and an understanding of local regulations, homeowners can modernize without sacrificing charm.

Start with the Details

Begin by documenting your home’s defining features: original wood floors, trim, windows, or unique millwork. Knowing what gives your home its historic personality helps you prioritize preservation. Alamo Heights homeowners should also check with city planning to see if their home falls under conservation or historic design guidelines.

Design With Respect

Modernizing doesn’t mean erasing. Choose materials, finishes, and layouts that complement the home’s original scale and style. Whether it’s cabinetry that echoes vintage detailing or lighting that feels timeless, balance is key. Keep ceiling heights, preserve original window and door openings, and source salvage or reproduction materials when replacements are needed.

Smart Material Choices

Use materials that match or thoughtfully contrast original elements. Refinish wood when possible, and seek out flooring, siding, or trim that

maintains the home’s period feel. Local salvage yards and specialty mills can supply historically accurate moldings and fixtures.

Plan for Systems, Timeline, and Budget

Older homes often hide surprises. Upgrade mechanical systems with minimal disruption— tucking new electrical or HVAC lines into existing spaces when possible. Build in time for permitting and delivery delays and set a contingency fund for unplanned repairs like hidden rot or outdated wiring.

Keep Resale in Mind

Today’s buyers value authenticity. Renovations that preserve period details while adding energy efficiency and comfort tend to command a premium. Neutral finishes and thoughtful upgrades attract a broad audience while honoring a home’s heritage.

Work With Experts

Select contractors with experience in historic renovations, especially in Alamo Heights. Check references and confirm they understand preservation standards. When needed, bring in craftspeople for specialty work like plaster, stained glass, or millwork.

With the right approach, you don’t have to choose between character and comfort. In Alamo Heights, it’s possible to have both—beautifully preserved homes that work for modern life.

Find the full-length version of this article at bruceXforey.com/ TheBruceBlog.

78209 Market Snapshot: August 2025 Brings Mixed Signals for Buyers and Sellers

The August 2025 housing data for San Antonio’s 78209 neighborhood paints a picture of a market in transition. While buyers are gaining more leverage, sellers are reassessing expectations with rising inventory and longer selling timelines.

Cooling Prices, Slower Pace

The median sales price in August dropped to $515,200, marking the third consecutive monthly decline and a notable drop from $550,450 in August 2024. The average sale price, however, ticked up slightly to $638,939, reflecting a handful of higher-end transactions that pulled the average higher despite softening median figures.

Sellers are also waiting longer to close a deal. Median days on market climbed to 63 days, up sharply from 45 days in July, and continuing a threemonth upward trend. This increase signals rising buyer hesitation or more room for negotiation.

Inventory Still High, Sales Down

Inventory levels remained elevated with 181 active listings, just shy of July’s 190. The months of housing supply held steady at 6.6, well above the 5- to 6-month benchmark typically considered balanced.

Meanwhile, closed sales fell to 23, a substantial dip from July’s 37 sales, suggesting a slowdown in buyer activity despite rising options. Fewer transactions led to a month-over-month decline in total dollar volume—dropping from $23.1 million in July to $14.7 million in August.

List Price Realism Sets In

Sellers in 78209 received 96.3% of their final list price on average, compared to 98.1% across the broader MLS. It’s important to note that this figure reflects the last listed price, not the original. Many sellers have already reduced their asking price before finding a buyer.

Takeaway

For buyers, increased inventory and longer days on market mean more negotiating power. For sellers, strategic pricing and property preparation are more crucial than ever. While 78209 remains one of San Antonio’s most desirable neighborhoods, market conditions now reward patience and precision on both sides of the table. This report uses data from InfoSparks and the LERA MLS via the San Antonio Board of REALTORS® (SABOR). Figures reflect traditional, preowned single-family homes in the 78209 zip code.

BRUCE X. FOREY

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.

Brackenridge Park Conservancy Presents Miraflores Party in the Park

Tuesday, October 7, 2025 | 6–9 p.m.

This October, Brackenridge Park Conservancy will host an evening unlike any other in San Antonio. The annual fundraising event will be staged at Miraflores on Tuesday, October 7, 2025. We are inviting guests to gather beneath the stars for a magical evening in one of the city’s most treasured and mysterious places: the Miraflores sculpture garden.

The gala, coordinated by Tri-Chair community leaders Rhonda Calvert, Robin Howard, and Charlotte Mitchell, promises a night of beauty, history, and purpose. Guests will enjoy a seated dinner under the full moon, surrounded by striking sculptures and mosaics along the San Antonio River. More than just a celebration, the event benefits Brackenridge Park Conservancy’s mission to preserve and enhance San Antonio’s premier urban park while supporting the re-envisioning of Miraflores — a garden created as a tribute to Mexican heritage.

This year’s honorees, the Steves Family, will be recognized for their enduring contributions to San Antonio’s cultural and natural heritage. Their leadership and generosity exemplify the civic spirit that sustains Brackenridge Park and its historic spaces, ensuring they remain vital resources for generations to come.

Miraflores itself tells a remarkable story. Conceived in the 1920s by Dr. Aureliano Urrutia, a Mexican surgeon who arrived in San Antonio during the Mexican Revolution, the garden was inspired by the water-rich landscapes of Xochimilco. Urrutia envisioned a sanctuary that celebrated Mexican heritage, blending memory, meaning, and beauty into a singular vision of art and nature. For decades, Miraflores remained a “secret garden,” its sculptures, mosaics, and architectural details hidden from public view. Today, with its listing on the National Register of Historic Places and recognition as a State Antiquities Landmark, it is poised for a renaissance.

The Miraflores Party in the Park marks a pivotal step in that journey. By bringing people together in this historic garden, the event reminds us all of Brackenridge Park’s role as one of the premier urban parks in the nation, while helping to lift Miraflores into the public eye. The goal is to open the garden to the community, and this evening ensures it will be a secret no longer.

Sponsorship opportunities and table sales are available now. For more information, visit brackenridgepark.org.

SCHOOL NEWS Cambridge Awarded Purple Star

Cambridge Elementary School has been awarded a Purple Star Campus Designation by the Texas Education Agency. The Purple Star recognizes Texas district and charter schools that show their support and commitment to meeting the unique needs of military-connected students and their families.

Every fall, TEA awards the Purple Star Campus designation to campuses that apply and meet the established criteria. This year 39 campuses in San Antonio were awarded a Purple Star designation. Cambridge was first recognized with a Purple Star in 2023 and is the first Alamo Heights ISD campus to earn this honor. This year’s designation will be for the 2025-26 and 2026-27 school years.

“Right here in ‘Military City USA’ and so close to Fort Sam Houston, Cambridge is honored to display our designation as a Purple Star campus,” said Karyn Shelnutt, AHISD Military Liaison. “This symbol tells our military families that we are fully invested in supporting them with the unique needs of the military child. We celebrate how special these students are by providing the support and resources their families may need, but also with bonding opportunities to get to know other military-connected students with shared life experiences. As we often say, “Military Kids Serve too!’

“Earning the Purple Star designation is a tremendous honor for Cambridge,” said Cambridge Principal Yvonne Munoz. “It’s more than just a recognition, it’s a reflection of our deep respect and gratitude for the sacrifices made by military families. As the principal of Cambridge, I am so proud to lead a school that honors and supports our military families with such heart, commitment, and unity.”

To receive the Purple Star Campus Designation, schools must designate a campus-based military

liaison, create and maintain an easily accessible webpage that includes information for militaryconnected students and their families, institute a campus transition program for military-connected students, and support a military family assistance initiative.

“We call our group the HOOAH Huddle because the term ‘HOOAH’ in the military is a battle cry, a term of endurance, perseverance, determination and grit, anything except for ‘no’. When faced with challenges, our military-connected students regularly charge forward with a response of “HOOAH”! We are so proud to display this Purple Star to represent them and their resilience!”

All Texas public schools are eligible to receive a Purple Star Campus Designation, regardless of their military-connected student population size. Applications for the designation are accepted annually.

Catalyst Writing & Education

College admissions are tougher than ever, and students need every edge they can get. The National Center for Education Statistics estimates there will be 3.9 million high school graduates in 2025, and more than 60% will be competing for a limited number of freshman seats. Some of the toughest competition is right here at home: The University of Texas at Austin received over 90,000 freshman applications from Aug. 1 to Dec. 1, 2024. With a Fall 2024 freshman class of just 9,200, nearly 90% of applicants had to find alternate schools. Strong grades and activities matter, but the SAT still plays a big role. Now that the test is fully digital, students must navigate new timing, question formats, and strategies—all while keeping their confidence up.

At Catalyst Writing & Education, we believe success doesn’t come from shortcuts. It comes from building real skills that last well beyond the test. One of the strongest predictors of success is active reading. Students who read with attention and curiosity can handle tricky passages, spot the right answers faster, and approach every section with sharper thinking.

With the right support, students can grow these skills. Through group courses and one-on-one coaching, we help students practice active reading, sharpen their writing, and build math reasoning confidence. When they prepare with purpose, they not only boost their scores—they discover their own potential.

Jen Wentlandt is the founder of Catalyst Writing & Education, offering test prep, bibliotherapy, and personalized tutoring in San Antonio.

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

SCHOOL NEWS

2025 EXCEL Award Winner

Alamo Heights High School Spanish Teacher Dr. Maria Cubero is the 2025-26 EXCEL Award Winner for Alamo Heights ISD!

Cubero was surprised in her classroom and presented with an apple trophy and $2,000 check. She has been teaching for 31 years and is in her sixth year of teaching in Alamo Heights ISD. She currently teaches Dual Credit Spanish classes.

“Dr. Cubero is a shining example of how we care for our students both in and out of the classroom,” said AHHS Principal Cory Smith. “Her students know she genuinely cares for them, and they in turn work hard in her classroom. Teaching Dual Credit Spanish on our campus has extended her reach even further, helping students get ahead of the game by earning college credits while still in high school. By connecting with her students on a personal level, she has empowered them to take risks and learn at a much deeper level in the classroom. I could not be more proud to work alongside her each day- she is a gem!”

Sra. Cubero is known for her “los famosos” wall in her classroom where she proudly displays photos with her students.

“I attend almost every activity that pertains to my students,” says Sra. Cubero. “Most will usually tell me if

they play sports or are in any extra-curricular activities, and if they are and I am able to, I will show up. I started noticing that after doing this, my students changed with me. Most even do better in the classroom because they have a teacher who cares for them and shows up.”

Her teaching philosophy is “Rendirse no es una opción” which in English translates to “Giving up is not an option.” She applies this to herself and to motivate her students, modeling every day the impact a dedicated, caring teacher can have on all the learners in the classroom.

“It is rare for me to be at an extracurricular event where she is not present,” says Smith. “She shows up for kidsin the classroom with engaging lessons and a culture of connection and collaboration - and on the competition field, court, or stage where she cheers on each of her students, often capturing photos and videos of their performance and sharing with them the following day.”

The EXCEL Award is sponsored by KENS 5 and Credit Human and representatives from both organizations came to celebrate Cubero along with her husband and daughter, colleagues, Principal Cory Smith, and Superintendent Dr. Dana Bashara.

FOR THE LOVE OF ANIMALS

Thinking of adding a new four-legged-friend to your family?

The Animal Defense League of Texas (ADL) is a non-profit organization that rescues homeless dogs, cats, puppies, and kittens, and provides medical treatment, nutrition, and shelter in a safe, live-release facility until they are matched with their forever families!

Hi, I’m Bess!

Domestic Shorthair / Mixed. Female. 3 Years, 4 Months. 6 Lbs. ADL Pet ID# A58361802.

I’ve been part of the ADL family for a while now, waiting for my perfect match to find me! Since I’ve been here over four months, my adoption fee is waived—so all you need to bring is love. Could you be the one to take this diamond home?

Hi, I’m Chuckie!

Domestic Shorthair / Mixed. Male. 2 Years. 7 Lbs. ADL Pet ID# A59350644.

All pet adoptions include: spay/ neuter surgery, age-appropriate vaccinations, a microchip, internal and external parasite treatment, a starter bag of Heritage Ranch by H-E-B pet food, 1 month of pet insurance via MetLife, and more!

Hi, I’m Sprite!

Domestic Shorthair / Mixed. Female. 4 Months. 4 Lbs. ADL Pet ID# A58752574.

Johnny Kothmann, DVM

Chris LaBrie, DVM 1051 Austin Highway, San Antonio (210) 828-3935 October:

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

DWI, Weapons Offense

Driver stopped for speeding was determined to be under the influence of alcohol; during a preimpoundment inventory of the vehicle a loaded firearm was found in the glove compartment.

05/30/25 - 7200 blk. Broadway

Vehicle Burglary (Jugging)

Driver reported he had just left his bank and stopped at a package delivery center; when he came out a few minutes later he found the driver side window smashed; a money bag left in the vehicle had been moved but was still in the vehicle.

05/30/25 - 5100 blk. Broadway

Narcotics Violation, Weapons Offense

Vehicle stopped for a traffic violation had a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the interior; during a probable cause search marijuana and a loaded semi-auto pistol were recovered; the additional charge of Unlawfully Carry Weapon was due to the driver’s possession of a firearm during the commission of a criminal offense.

06/01/25 - 5100 blk. Broadway

DWI

Officers assisting with the above case observed a vehicle drive over a raised median and continue driving in the opposing traffic lane; vehicle was stopped and investigation revealed the driver was under the influence of alcohol and impaired.

06/01/25 - 5000 blk. Broadway

Vehicle Burglary

Vehicle unlawfully entered during overnight hours to steal property; no signs of forced entry into the vehicle.

06/02/25 - 300 blk. Kennedy

Vehicle Burglary

Unlocked vehicle parked in the street during mid morning hours was unlawfully entered while the owner visited the resident; upon return the owner discovered a wallet and other property left in open view had been stolen.

06/03/25 - 200 blk. Bronson

Vehicle Burglary

Surveillance cameras recorded a male subject enter an unlocked vehicle at 2:00 a.m. and stealing property from the center console.

06/03/25 - 500 blk. Lamont

Wanted Person

Driver stopped for a traffic violation was found to have two felony arrest warrants issued by Bexar County for Burglary of Habitation and DWI 3rd.

06/04/25 - 500 blk. Austin Hwy.

Theft (beer-run)

Male subject departed the store without paying for a twelve-pack of beer; subject unable to be located.

06/04/25 - 500 blk. Austin Hwy.

Emergency Detention

Male subject made repeated calls to 9-1-1 from different locations reporting a woman screaming; subject located and found to be in

AHPD CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS DIVISION

6116 Broadway

San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 822-2164

Fax (210) 822-7111

mental crisis; transported to a treatment center.

06/05/25 - 100 blk. Montclair

Narcotics Violation

Male subject attempted to enter the rear/side door of a mini-van parked in the driveway with a person inside; the subject departed before officers arrived but was located a short distance away; while detained the subject admitted he had methamphetamine on his person; search of the outer clothing confirmed he was in possession of methamphetamines and associated paraphernalia.

06/06/25 - 200 blk. Canyon

Fraud (attempted scam)

Resident reported her personal computer froze up and listed a number was listed to remedy the computer malfunction; the resident called the number and a person identifying themselves as Federal Trade Commission was conducting an “investigation”; the resident was asked for her personal identification information and then was instructed to buy vouchers at a local drug store and wait for agents who would take her to the bank and ensure her information would not be shared; an investigating officer spoke to the subjects who persisted they were FTC agents; when the call was disconnected the resident received a call from a person identifying themselves as a local police chief who threatened to get an arrest warrant; no further contact made.

06/06/25 - Corona Ave.

Wanted Person, Narcotics Violation, Forgery

Officers responded to the drive-thru lanes of a local bank for a possible forgery in progress; the check showed obvious signs of alteration and the subject was taken into custody; a routine wanted check was performed and an active arrest warrant for a probation violation was confirmed; during a preimpoundment inventory of the suspect vehicle methamphetamines were found.

06/06/25 - 400 blk. Austin Hwy

Criminal Mischief, Violation of Protective Order

An ex-boyfreind came to a residence while under protective order prohibiting any form of contact and began arguing with an ex-girlfriend during which he broke the resident’s vehicle windshield with a rock.

06/07/25 - 00 blk. Grove

DWI, 3rd or More

Driver stopped for speeding was determined to be under the influence of alcohol and impaired; routine records check revealed two previous DWI convictions.

06/17/25 - 5100 blk. Broadway

Just a Reminder:

Please Don’t Drink & Drive. Download these apps for your local ride sharing services at the App Store or Google Play.