Jiwon Choi Song
HONORING HISTORY AND INSPIRING THE NEXT GENERATION OF STORIES
16 Cover Story
More than a century after Jot Gunter imagined The Gunter Hotel, Jiwon Choi Song stands as the next steward of that dream—a global citizen leading a historic American institution with humility, courage, and care.
22 Role Model
After an injury reshaped her future, Bri Aguilar now helps women transform their bodies, rebuild their confidence, and create ripple effects that extend far beyond the gym.
24 Guy to Know
Meet Dr. Damaso Oliva, Rey Feo 77. The “People’s King” has been working tirelessly since May of 2025 to raise scholarship funds to help students achieve their dream of higher education.
56 Women in Business
Christine Denney, Ana Warmke, and Terry Zepeda share insights into crafting a successful career in residential real estate.
CONTRIBUTORS
Rudy Arispe Writer
Shauna Forkenbrock Writer
Lainey Berkus Writer What's in Your Bag
Dr. Bill Murphy
Contributing Beauty Editor Best Practices, Dr. Bill Murphy
Chelcee Porter
Pharm D, IFMCP
Contributing Welness Editor
Jennifer Denton
Photographer Jennifer Denton Photography
Edie O'Brien
Contributing Fashion Editor Edie Styles
David Teran
Photographer
David Teran Photography
Suzanne Pack
Photographer Celebrated Reflections
Michelle Vasquez Writer
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Cathleen Lane
Jiwon Choi Song Managing Director, Axle Companies
cathleen@sawoman.com
DIRECTOR OF SALES & PARTNERSHIPS
Dale Lane dale@sawoman.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR Taylor Lane taylor@sawoman.com
ADVERTISING SALES
Cindy Jennings cindy@sawoman.com
Bruce X. Forey bruce@sawoman.com
CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER
Kimberly Pipes, PCM®, CDMP kimberly@sawoman.com
FASHION EDITOR
Edie O’Brien
WRITERS
Rudy Arispe
Lainey Berkus
Shauna Forkenbrock
John Hogg, MD
Bill Murphy, MD
Edie O’Brien
Chelcee Porter IFMPC
Michelle Vasquez
CONTRIBUTORS
Dr. Aimee Browne
Analy Diego
Dr. Jaime Mayoral
Zarema Singson, MD
PHOTOGRAPHY
Jennifer Denton
Suzanne Pack
David Teran
PRINTING
Shweiki Media
PUBLISHED BY Las Tres Muchachas, LLC.
NOMINATIONS & ADVERTISING INFORMATION
Email: info@sawoman.com
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Cathleen & Dale Lane
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sawoman.com @sanantoniowoman
EDITOR'S LETTER
Each issue of San Antonio Woman is a chance to spotlight the women and stories shaping our city, and this spring issue brings together several that reflect the heart of San Antonio.
Our cover woman, Jiwon Choi Song, is a remarkable example of thoughtful leadership. Born in South Korea and now deeply rooted in Texas, Jiwon brings a global perspective and a quiet strength to her role as steward of The Gunter Hotel, one of our city’s most historic landmarks. What I love most about her story is the care behind her vision—honoring the past while thoughtfully building for the future. Her journey reminds us that leadership doesn’t have to be loud to make a lasting impact.
You’ll also meet several outstanding women working in residential real estate who are helping San Antonians navigate one of life’s biggest milestones: finding a place to call home. Their insight, dedication, and understanding of our ever-growing city make them invaluable guides for buyers and sellers alike.
We’re also highlighting the importance of colorectal cancer awareness and the lifesaving power of early detection— an important reminder that prioritizing our health is one of the most powerful things we can do for ourselves and our families.
And of course, this season wouldn’t be complete without Fiesta®. As our city prepares for its most colorful celebration, we’re reminded how lucky we are to live in a community that values tradition, connection, and joy.
Finally, I hope you get a chance to enjoy the beautiful Texas bluebonnets this spring! This stunning photo was taken by my super-talented cousin, Molly.
As always, thank you for reading.
Cheers, Cathleen
Cathleen Lane Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
Photo credit: Molly Quirk Photography @mollyquirkphotography
Jiwon Choi Song
The Quiet Power of Building Something That Lasts
By
Shauna Forkenbrock | Photography by Suzanne Pack
Jiwon Choi Song has never sought to be the loudest voice in the room. Her leadership is measured, intentional, and deeply human, shaped by a life lived across cultures and guided by a steady internal compass. Born and raised in South Korea, educated across continents, and now firmly rooted in Texas, Song is the Managing Director of Axle Companies and owner of one of San Antonio’s most historic landmarks, The Gunter Hotel. Song leads with a belief that what we build should last well beyond us.
Her story is proof that leadership does not have to be loud to be lasting.
A Global Foundation
Raised in South Korea in a traditional household, Song learned early that strength can take many forms. Her father was a disciplined, forward-thinking businessman. Her mother stayed home to raise the family, leading with intelligence, kindness, and quiet resolve.
“Both of my parents showed strength in their own ways,” Song says. “They were different kinds of leaders, but equally impactful.”
Entrepreneurship was a lived experience in her extended family. Risk-taking was common, and courage was understood as part of building something meaningful. “Even as a child, I remember thinking, 'Are you sure you want to do that?’” she says. “But I learned that boldness matters.”
Hospitality entered her life through human connection. In high school, Song interned in hotels and felt drawn to the way the industry blended structure with relationships. She studied abroad in the U.S. and in Japan to master a third language, eventually enrolling at Cornell University’s School of Hotel Administration, her dream program.
“Hospitality is where business and relationships meet,” she says. “That’s where my values align.”
Early roles at Starwood’s corporate office and W Hotels in New York City were demanding and formative. The pace was intense, the expectations high, and the lessons enduring. Those experiences cemented her love for the industry and sharpened her understanding of what great hospitality requires.
Learning to Belong in More Than One World
Song’s life has been defined by movement across countries, cultures, and identities. Studying abroad
as a young student expanded her worldview and reshaped her sense of belonging. “I realized I could be comfortable in more than one place,” she says.
High school in America challenged her academically and culturally, particularly as a non-native English speaker. The experience tested her resilience and built confidence that would serve her for decades. During those years, Song found grounding in books, especially The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho. One line stayed with her: When we strive to become better than we are, everything around us becomes better, too. The idea became a guiding principle in both life and leadership.
Balancing cultural expectations continues to shape her perspective. “In Korean culture, humility is deeply ingrained,” she explains. “In American business culture, you’re often expected to promote yourself. Finding that balance is something I still navigate.”
Leadership Rooted in Care
Song leads with trust, empathy, and a long-term view. Relationships, she believes, matter more than shortterm advantage. “I care deeply about building trust,” she says. “If you do the right thing consistently, success follows.”
That philosophy was tested during The Gunter’s renovation. Song made the decision to keep as many employees as possible and to continue paying benefits for those temporarily displaced while the hotel was closed. “We stayed with them, and they stayed with us,” she says. “We persevered together.”
Her leadership principles are simple:
• Do the right thing.
• Go above and beyond.
• Work as a team.
A Historic Opportunity
When the opportunity to acquire The Gunter Hotel arose, Song saw a challenge she understood. The property was described as having “a lot of potential.” “I like challenges,” she says. “I thought, I can make this work.”
What surprised her was the depth of connection she felt to the hotel’s history and to San Antonio itself. As her team researched the building, stories emerged— house orchestras, recording sessions, civil rights history, soldiers’ dances, handwritten love letters, and generations of gatherings preserved in photographs and archives.
The Gunter also played a role in the founding of institutions such as USAA and greater:SATX, embedding it deeply in the city’s economic and cultural fabric.
Song found a powerful parallel in the hotel’s origins. More than a century earlier, Jot Gunter, a Germanborn entrepreneur newly arrived in the United States, chose San Antonio to build something lasting. Today, Song finds herself in a similar role, a visionary from another country entrusted with shaping the future of a consequential landmark.
“When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you achieve it.” —from The Alchemist by Paul Coelho
“I felt an immediate connection to his story,” she says. “Owning The Gunter isn’t about possession. It’s about stewardship.”
Honoring Music, Memory, and Meaning
Music runs through The Gunter’s history and through Song’s own life. A classically trained pianist, she remains deeply connected to music, a passion shared in her home with her daughters.
The Gunter had famously hosted recording sessions for the American Record Corporation, including those associated with Brunswick Records and the legendary Robert Johnson. During the restoration, Song discovered many other musicians had passed through its halls as well.
“The Gunter had a real role in American music history, that felt too important to ignore,” she says.
Song chose to invest in a renewed commitment to creativity: a professional recording studio, listening lounge, the revival of Bar 414, the Robert Johnson
Suite wired for recording, and rooms named after house composers and orchestra leaders. Guests can borrow records from the lobby’s vinyl library, curated by an in-house Vinyl Ambassador, and every room includes a record player along with Robert Johnson’s famed recording.
“The decision to fill The Gunter with music is an authentic expression of its history,” she explains. “I want to inspire the creator inside all of us to compose our own San Antonio story,” she says.
Every renovation decision followed the same philosophy: preserve the soul, modernize the function. Historic architecture was protected while infrastructure was upgraded. For Song, luxury is not about extravagance but intention.
“Luxury is thoughtful,” she says. “It’s anticipating what someone needs before they ask.”
From steamers replacing ironing boards to steeped coffee instead of plastic pods, every detail reflects care. Song personally selected design elements, scents, and
amenities to create an atmosphere of calm, comfort, and quiet refinement.
Building Beyond the Hotel
Song’s vision extends into the surrounding neighborhood. Paris Baguette, now open at the historic corner of Houston and St. Mary’s Streets, was intentionally chosen to honor the legacy of the original Gunter Bakery, once a beloved community fixture.
“Bringing Paris Baguette, originally from South Korea, to San Antonio feels like sharing a piece of my home,” she says. She is energized by the local response and is actively working to expand its presence across the city. For Song, The Gunter is more than a hotel—it is a platform for arts, education, and cultural exchange. Her support of music and education organizations reflects a belief in the arts as a powerful connector across cultures. One such organization, Musical Bridges Around the World, aligns closely with both her global upbringing and The Gunter’s musical legacy.
That same philosophy shapes how Song approaches The Gunter’s role within the city. Through partnerships with local institutions such as the Majestic Empire Foundation and ATG, the hotel encourages people to gather downtown before and after performances. “I
want people to linger and enjoy more of the city,” Song says.
As a member of the World Affairs Council of San Antonio, Song is also committed to global dialogue and the future of downtown, working closely with Centro and local businesses. “I’m honored to be part of what’s next for San Antonio,” she says.
Carrying the Story Forward
More than a century after Jot Gunter imagined his hotel, Jiwon Choi Song stands as the next steward of that dream—a global citizen leading a historic American institution with humility, courage, and care.
Her hope is that future generations, like those before, will fall in love here, create memories here, and feel welcomed here. “I care deeply,” she says. “About this city. About this building. About the people who walk through these doors.”
When she reflects on her role, emotion surfaces. “I feel honored,” she says. “Others came before me. Others will come after. My role is simply to protect and strengthen what has been entrusted to me.”
In her hands, The Gunter’s story continues.
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By
Bri Aguilar
Change your mind. Change your life.
Michelle Vasquez
Photography by Celeste Elena Photography
Before she coached women through transformation, Bri Aguilar had to reinvent herself.
As a high school senior, she was preparing to sign a college basketball scholarship. Years of discipline had led to that moment. Then she tore her ACL. The future she had built her identity around disappeared overnight.
“I had to be honest with myself,” she says. “I wasn’t going to the WNBA. At 18, I just knew I wanted to be able to run with my kids one day.”
The injury forced a shift. Instead of chasing competitive basketball, she turned to weightlifting and studying nursing. Drawn to anatomy and physiology, she wanted to understand how the body works. What began as personal recovery slowly grew into purpose.
Today, the San Antonio-based coach works with women in every season of life. Some are pregnant. Some are postpartum. Some are rebuilding after stress, divorce, or loss. While she specializes in hormone health and core restoration, her work is about far more than workouts.
“Limitations are what we believe to be true about ourselves,” she says. “That really starts in our mind.”
Aguilar learned that lesson through experience. She became a mother at 22, married young, and went through personal life changes. She navigated co-parenting and intense stress. Later, she experienced a miscarriage. During one especially difficult season, her stress levels rose and so did her weight. Hormones were out of balance. She gained 30 pounds quickly on her five-foot frame.
beginning, a client might describe a missed workout as failure. Weeks later, the same client describes a tough week with perspective and resolve.
“Who you become in the process matters more than the outcome,” she says. “Show me who you become.”
One client had already lost significant weight but still doubted she belonged in the gym. Through consistency and mindset work, she began pushing past her own fears. She completed a half-marathon. She competed in High Rocks events. She entered the Boston Marathon lottery.
“She was always capable,” Aguilar says. “The only thing that changed was her belief.”
For Aguilar, strength training builds more than muscle. It builds discipline and follow-through. It teaches women to respond differently when life gets hard.
“Things are going to happen,” she says. “But how you respond determines where your journey goes.”
"When you take care of yourself physically, you radiate."
“I hid in oversized clothes,” she says. “I didn’t feel like myself.”
She was training others while quietly struggling inside. No amount of cardio could fix the stress she was carrying. When she began addressing her mindset and daily structure, her body responded.
“When you take care of yourself physically, you radiate,” she says. “That confidence shows up in how you parent, how you work, and how you love. Everyone wins from it. Not just you.”
That belief shapes how she coaches. Aguilar says she often hears transformation before she sees it. In the
Her impact extends beyond individual coaching. Through her Muscle Mami Club boot camps and podcast, she has created a growing community of women in San Antonio. The gatherings center on movement, but connection is just as important. Women of different ages gather in the same space. Some bring daughters. Some bring mothers. Many arrive alone and leave invigorated in mind and body, and they might also have met someone new.
“I don’t just want you to leave sore,” she says. “I want you to leave knowing you are not alone.”
“You never know who’s watching,” she says. “When you say yes to yourself, you help someone else do the same.”
Now pregnant with her second child, a daughter, Aguilar thinks about the example she is setting.
“It doesn’t matter what season you’re in,” she says. “You are never too far gone. There is always work you can do to grow.”
For Bri Aguilar, strength is no longer about a scoreboard. It is about helping women change the story they tell themselves. When that story shifts, everything else can shift with it.
Damaso Oliva, Jr., MD Rey Feo LXXVII
By Rudy Arispe
Photography by David Teran
Cuban-born Damaso “Danny” Oliva Jr., MD, was 3 years old when his family was fortunate to board a Red Cross boat that whisked them away from Havana during the height of the country’s revolution in the 1960s.
“We left with just the clothes on our backs,” Oliva recalled. “The Red Cross brought over supplies and left with people. My father was in medical school at the time, so he didn’t get to finish his degree.”
After arriving in Miami, Oliva’s father, Damaso Sr., found work doing odd jobs but soon realized that his family’s prospects for a brighter future were dependent on him completing his education, so he committed to going back to medical school. The Oliva family then moved to Spain, where Damaso Sr. completed medical school and earned his M.D. degree, then returned to the United States to complete his residency in psychiatry and finally settled in San Antonio.
“My dad would always tell us, ‘there’s one thing that can’t be taken away from you, and that is your education,’ so we learned early on in life how important it is to get an education,” Oliva said.
Just as education has been key throughout Oliva’s life, it is also a major theme for the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation, and Oliva is carrying on the organization’s annual tradition of raising scholarship funds for collegebound students. As this year’s Rey Feo 77, Oliva will reign over Fiesta San Antonio 2026, as the People’s King from April 16-26.
Oliva has raised more than $300,000, and he’s not stopping there. His goal is to raise $770,000 by May. “We feel education is the greatest equalizer, and it really breaks down barriers for people,” he said. “We’re trying to help make it possible for every generation to be better and have more opportunity than the one before.”
According to The Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation’s website, since 1984, the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation has provided over $11 million in scholarships to help students achieve their dream of higher education.
Since May 2025, Oliva and his Royal Court have been working tirelessly to raise big dollars by hosting a variety of monthly creative fundraising events. Some of these include a Night at the San Antonio Missions at Wolff Stadium, a Royal Brunch at the Club at Sonterra, a Loteria Night at the Freeman Coliseum, and Havana Nights at Pedrottis’ Ranch, to name a few.
“We’re also planning a Rey Feo in the Neighborhood, where we’ll go to people’s homes to spread the word about Rey Feo and Fiesta,” Oliva said.
Since 1996, Oliva has owned and operated Alamo Psychiatric Care, P.A., his private psychiatric practice in downtown San Antonio, where he specializes in adult and geriatric psychiatry. His practice consists of both outpatient care in his private office and inpatient hospital care.
“I love what I do. It’s a passion and a vocation,” Oliva said, adding that he followed in his father’s footsteps by also earning his medical degree, completing his residency in psychiatry, and opening his psychiatry practice in downtown San Antonio. “I’ve been in practice for over 30 years, so my patients have gotten old with me. If they were 40, they’re now 70.”
He is also the Chief Medical Officer at Cedar Hills Behavioral Hospital. In 2017, Oliva assisted the University of the Incarnate Word in implementing and developing a Psychiatric Residency program for the School of Osteopathic Medicine, along with a colleague, Dr. Jason Miller. Oliva is currently an instructor and attending physician for the residency program.
“I had hired Dr. Miller when I was chief of staff at Southwest General Hospital,” Oliva explained. “He asked me to help him start a psychiatry residency program. I love education, so we did it. So far, we’ve graduated four classes. We started with eight residents, and now we’re up to 12 per year.”
Oliva shares a story about his mother, who was valedictorian of her high school in Cuba. She had a full ride to attend The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., but never got to attend because of the Cuban Revolution. Knowing his mother’s opportunity was taken from her drives Oliva to work towards removing obstacles to education for San Antonio students.
“She always wanted to read my textbooks and study with me,” he recalled. “She would tell me that the best way to stay young is to be curious and continuously learn. It keeps your mind active.”
And that’s exactly what Oliva does every day in his quest for knowledge and as a huge supporter of education.
For more information: reyfeoscholarship.com
The 2026 Joci Awards: Where High School Talent Meets Mental Strength on San Antonio’s Biggest Stage
By Shauna Forkenbrock | Photography by Siggi Ragnar
On a Sunday evening in May, the Majestic Theatre will once again fill with nerves, excitement, and the unmistakable electricity of possibility. But the 2026 Joci Awards are about far more than standing ovations and scholarship checks. This year, the nation’s largest performing arts scholarship program steps into a new era, one that recognizes mental health as essential to performance as talent itself.
Now awarding $200,000 in scholarships and drawing students from across South Texas and beyond, the Joci Awards have long been a launchpad for young performers pursuing futures in voice, dance, acting, and technical theatre. What sets 2026 apart is the Majestic Empire Foundation’s (MEF) intentional integration of Mental Health Performance Psychology, a “whole person” approach that prepares students not just to perform, but to endure, adapt, and thrive in high-pressure environments.
Performance Is More Than the Moment
Auditions. Callbacks. Cuts. Public rankings. Applause. Or silence. For young performers, competition is often their first sustained exposure to public evaluation. The Joci Awards do not shy away from this reality. Instead, MEF meets it head-on.
Through free education tied directly to the Joci Awards, students learn mental skills traditionally reserved for elite athletes, adapted for the unique pressures of the performing arts. These include concentration under pressure, emotional regulation, confidence building, visualization, resilience after loss or injury, and, perhaps most importantly, identity beyond performance results.
In other words, students are taught that their worth does not rise and fall with a judge’s score.
Scholarships With Support Systems
Since its founding in 2009, the Joci Awards have awarded more than $2.3 million to high school students, guaranteeing every finalist at least $3,000 toward post-secondary education. In 2025 alone, the program reached more than 5,000 students, delivered over 500 hours of free education, and placed 435 young artists on the Majestic stage, a staggering increase of 912% that reflects both demand and trust in the program.
But behind those numbers are quieter transformations. Students report improved confidence, healthier coping strategies, and a greater sense of psychological safety with skills that extend far beyond theatre. Workshops emphasize self-evaluation without self-judgment, reframing rejection as information rather than failure. Wins and losses are treated as part of a longer journey, not a final verdict.
“Before Joci, I thought every audition decided my future,” said one 2025 finalist. “Learning how to breathe, reset, and separate who I am from one performance changed everything. I didn’t just become a better singer — I became stronger as a person.”
Preparing for Life, Not Just the Stage
The Joci Awards are the flagship of a much larger, yearround arts education ecosystem. Through programs such as Showstoppers Musical Theatre, the Academy for the Arts, Produced by Youth, the Majestic Empire Apprentice Program, Broadway Camp, and a growing slate of workshops, masterclasses, and performances, MEF serves young people from middle school through young adulthood across San Antonio and South Texas. Across every touchpoint, the throughline is clear: train the artist, protect the human.
For teens balancing school, family obligations, and long rehearsal hours, mental skill training offers tools
for emotional regulation and resilience. For students navigating injury, illness, or personal loss, it provides language and strategies to stay connected to purpose. For those who don’t “win,” it reinforces that a single outcome does not define a future.
Many participants go on to college and professional pathways. Others take leadership, teaching, or technical roles. All leave with skills that apply to interviews, teamwork, and self-advocacy, all proof that performance psychology is life training in disguise.
Why It Matters Now
As arts programs face cuts across Texas, MEF is expanding, investing in people when systems fall short. At a time when youth mental health needs are rising, and competitive pressures are intensifying, the 2026 Joci Awards send a clear message: caring for mental wellbeing is not a luxury. It is infrastructure.
By centering psychological safety, mind-body awareness, and identity beyond applause, the Joci Awards redefine what success looks like for young performers. The spotlight still shines. The stakes are still real. But students step onto the Majestic stage better prepared for both the performance and for whatever comes next. The curtain rises on May 17, 2026, at the Majestic Theatre. What unfolds is not just a competition, but a model for how the arts can nurture resilience, confidence, and the whole person—long after the final bow. Your ticket fuels scholarships, mentorship, and free arts education for local students. Don’t miss it. Get your tickets now at majesticempire.com
Jaselyn Blanchard, Executive Director, 210-223-4343, jaselyn@majesticempirefdn.org
Lainey Berkus, Press & Media, 210-710-0931, lmberkus@me.com
By the Numbers
• 5,000+ high school students engaged annually across 71+ schools from San Antonio to the Lower Rio Grande Valley
• 60% of participants from Title I or underserved communities
• $2.3M+ in scholarships awarded since 2009
• 500+ hours of free arts education delivered in 2025
• 435 students performed on the Majestic stage in 2025 — a 912% increase from the year before
• 85% of students report increased confidence, discipline, and stronger collaboration
• 78% say MEF influenced their college and career pathways
• 99% of alumni pursue higher education; 98% graduate with a degree
Edie O’Brien ediestyles.com
Spring 2026 is all about balancing freshness with familiarity — think airy minis and fluid skirts, reimagined classics like trench coats and structured blazers. From romantic florals and statement sleeves to easy-to-wear knits and refined loafers, this season invites us to mix bold new silhouettes with timeless basics. In this spread, we’re highlighting standout Spring 2026 trends with two inspired options — one investment-worthy and one budget-friendly. By placing them side-by-side, you can see how to achieve the same elevated look at different price points. Whether you’re ready to invest or prefer a smart save, these 10 pieces will spark fresh inspiration for the season ahead.
Versatile, Luxe, and Runway-Favored
SAVE
Jessie Zaho Blooming Night double-sided scarf, $63 macys.com
SPLURGE
Grand Tralala double face-scarf, $800 Hermes.com
Reinvented Trench Coat
Unexpected Colors & Fabrics — a Spring Staple Refreshed
SAVE The long trench coat, $143.40 Anntaylor.com
SPLURGE Alice and Olivia, Nevada trench, $1295 bloomingdales.com
Romantic + Dramatic for Spring Air
SAVE
Hyacinth House Red & Pink Jacquard Janie blouse, $128 Tuckernuck.com
SPLURGE
Lana fanned camisole, $1500 Zimmermann.com
Veda polka dot trouser pants, $78 altardstate.com
Stripe wide-leg pants, $750 zimmermann.com
Fresh Florals With a Vintage Twist
SAVE
Linen blend tie strap dress, $84.99 www2.hm.com
SPLURGE
Evelyn backless halter maxi dress, Aqua Blu Australia, $520 Neimanmarcus.com
Polished Footwear to Elevate Anything From Denim to Suiting
SAVE
Leandra heeled loafer, $110 katespadeoutlet.com
SPLURGE
Stratford pink crocodile print loafers, $869 wolfandbadger.com
Midi & Maxi Skirts
Tiered, Flowing - Romantic Movement for Spring Days
SAVE Floral tiered ruffle maxi skirt, Treasure & Bond, $77.35 nordstrom.com
SPLURGE
Poppy parade skirt with Liberty fabric, $599 lilysilk.com
Angelina "Angel" Alcocer Bag?
What’s in your
Need An Angel In Your Life?
By Lainey Berkus | Photography by Jennifer Denton
I've found one—and she just might change the way you move. Meet Angelina "Angel" Alcocer, the radiant energy behind Angel Restorative Wellness, where stretching transforms into a soulful practice of balance and renewal. Her personalized sessions melt away tension, unlock mobility, and invite a deep sense of calm that lingers long after you leave the mat.
Angel is a Certified Stretching & Flexibility Coach and Personal Trainer who believes that movement is medicine. She approaches each session as a chance to help people release what's holding them back—whether that's muscular tension, poor posture, or the mental weight of stress. Her clients range from athletes and dancers to busy parents and desk-bound professionals, and she meets them all with calm, focused energy and a smile that instantly makes you feel lighter.
I know firsthand. I see her weekly, and every time I peek into her bag, I find new clues to the magic she brings to her work. This isn't just a gym bag—it's a mobile wellness studio, thoughtfully packed to support her craft and care for her clients.
Inside, you'll find the essentials: a powerful Theragun massager for deep-tissue relief, Therabody leg compression boots that help stimulate circulation and recovery, trigger point balls for precision tension release, and stretching straps that she uses to help clients safely increase flexibility. She also carries resistance bands in every color (each one serving a unique purpose) and her favorite essential oils that set the tone for each session. And because Angel believes everybody tells a story, she always has her journal tucked inside—ready to jot down observations, breakthroughs, or small victories after each session.
Tucked into a side pocket are healthy snacks to keep her energy steady throughout the day, and her ever-present water bottle—hydration is part of her wellness philosophy. There's also a touch of personal flair: a tiny silver charm of an angel wing, gifted by a longtime client, that reminds her why she loves what she does.
Looking into her bag is like peeking into her philosophy: practical tools, a few soulful touches, and a whole lot of heart. Angel doesn't just stretch bodies—she helps people expand into a better version of themselves.
Angel's Tips for Better Stretching
1. Start with breath.
2. Before jumping into any stretch, take 3–5 deep belly breaths. This calms your nervous system and prepares your muscles to release tension.
3. Pick a stretch, ease into it, and hold.
4. Aim for 20–30 seconds without bouncing. Bouncing can cause micro-tears, while holding gives your muscles time to relax and lengthen.
5. Focus on high-use areas.
6. Your neck, hips, and hamstrings carry a lot of stress— especially if you sit or stand for long hours. A few mindful stretches here can make a huge difference in how you feel.
Living With Peace and Purpose… and the Abraham Accords
By Bill Murphy, MD, Medical Director, Turquoise Springs Medical Spa
The cycle of life is in full focus at my home this month. We lost a dear relative, the sister of my wife, who was more like her Mom than her sister. She was a wonderful person and will be sorely missed. We are anxiously expecting the birth of an eighth grandchild within the next few weeks. We could not be more excited! We feel the hand of God actively working in our lives.
Wellness is a holistic, proactive approach to health. It emphasizes maintaining and improving physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health through lifestyle and choices, which help us avoid illness and live as fully as possible. Many times, we mostly dwell on the physical, nutritional, and aesthetic aspects, and feel the emotional and spiritual parts of ourselves are not as important. Let’s discuss the latter today and how your spiritual life is critical to health as well.
As a physician and particularly an anesthesiologist, I have seen thousands of people transition into life through birth and from this physical life at the end of their journey. It is a blessing and an honor to be able to witness and participate with each person at these disparate times.
I have helped resuscitate so many people during emergencies that I can no longer keep track of the
number. Over the years, I have spoken with many patients after a traumatic event. Many would ask me about their dreams, visions, and memories as they were teetering near death, before returning to consciousness hours, days, or weeks later. Many spoke of the “bright white light at the end of a tunnel”, and I never really thought much about it. I explained it as probably due to a lack of oxygen in the brain or some other medical phenomenon I couldn’t explain.
In 2024, I read an article about NDE’s (near-death experiences), which piqued my interest in the stories I had heard from my own patients. It caused me to read several books. The most impressive of the group are two books written by a former street preacher to the homeless and addicted in Austin, Texas. His name is John Burke, and the two books are Imagine Heaven and Imagine the God of Heaven. He interviewed over 1500 people during a 30-year period and recorded each of their stories and recollections.
Pastor Burke talked with people of all religious persuasions about their NDE’s. He interviewed people of all ages, religions, and even folks who were nonbelievers, atheists, or agnostics. Their experiences and descriptions in the books went well beyond the “light at the end of the tunnel”. Pastor Burke then compared their descriptions to various descriptions of heaven
and the afterlife described in the Christian Bible and the writings from the Dead Sea scrolls, which were written around 300-68 BCE and were found in various caves from 1946 to 1956 in the Middle East.
The three main or major religions on earth are Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. What do they all have in common? They claim to serve the same God. Mankind… human beings, going back thousands of years, have looked for some higher being to help make sense of the universe. We have wanted, even needed, something greater than ourselves to worship, to cling to, and to help explain the fear, uncertainty, and even calamity life can cause. Spirituality or the search for where we are from and where we are going is as important to our mental and emotional wellbeing as the right food, exercise, and habits, it seems.
What is the reason the peace deal in the Middle East, which is being negotiated as we write, is called the Abraham Accords? The reason is that Abraham is the father of all three of these main religious disciplines. Abraham was Jewish and the father of the early Jewish tribes. Abraham was the father of Ishmael, whose mother was Hagar. Ishmael is the lineage to the Prophet Mohammed. Abraham’s son Isaac, with his mother Sara, is the heir who led to King David, and ultimately to Jesus 41 generations after Isaac.
My journey as a physician has had many spiritual ups and downs over the years. Many times I have asked God to help me understand why. What is the purpose, what is the plan, why is this happening, and what are you going to do to help me get out of this mess? I bet some of you have the same questions. The greatest help for me to finally see some answers and to receive some help and understanding has come through the stories of many who have had an NDE and tell about their experience. It has been comforting and enlightening to listen to some who feel they caught a glimpse of the overall plan, and were allowed to return to talk about it. As you seek peace, comfort, less anxiety, better sleep, more tolerance, and wish to live a more complete and “well” life, I recommend these two books to you. It will likely cause you to read other authors’ books who have written on the subject. Whatever your takeaway, I think it will not be a waste of your time. My hope is that it may help you feel a bit of calm, assurance that you’re not alone with your struggles, and that there is purpose and a plan as you live your life and face each new day.
Turquoise Springs Medical Spa 210-253-3313 www.turquoisesprings.com
New Garage Doors Offer 272% Return On Investment in San Antonio,
According to Remodeling Magazine’s Latest Cost Vs. Value Report
A new garage door is one of the fastest and easiest home improvement projects - and it delivers the highest return on investment when it’s time to sell, according to Remodeling Magazine’s latest Cost vs. Value Report.
The report shows that a new garage door in the San Antonio area produces a 272 percent return on investment, up from 149 percent in 2024. The finding is based on the installation of a foaminsulated 16-foot-by-7-foot door and new tracks priced at $4,375, creating a resale value of $11,912.
“More people are realizing how much difference a garage door can make in the curb appeal and beauty of a home,” said Randy Oliver, president of Hollywood-Crawford Garage Door Company. “A new garage door is like an instant facelift for your home.”
“Compared to many home improvement projects, new garage doors offer a relatively low cost, fast installation and a wide range of design options,” Oliver said. Hollywood-Crawford’s showroom displays more than 40 garage door styles, allowing homeowners to find a look that fits their home.
Garage doors can cover up to 40% of the front elevation of some homes, which allows homeowners to greatly improve the function, value and curb appeal of their home just by replacing their garage door.
New garage doors can also help reduce energy costs. Insulated doors help keep garages cooler and reduce heat transfer into the home.
To learn more about how a garage door can quickly, easily and affordably boost curb appeal, visit www. hollywoodcrawford.com or call 210-494-3434.
Leigh Street Residence
By Analy Diego, RID
Principal | Studio AD
To enhance the home's exterior, we designed a custom metal railing that complements the architecture while adding a bold, modern edge to the entry experience. Inspired by the home's dark upper facade, the railing ties the exterior palette together and creates a cohesive transition between natural stone, warm wood accents, and contemporary detailing.
Photography by Raúl Treviño
Designed for a fun pair of empty nesters who love the energy of city living, this San Antonio home was created to feel like both a stylish retreat and the perfect setting for entertaining. The couple's lifestyle is all about connection, hosting friends, spending time with family, and staying close to the cultural pulse of their neighborhood, so the design needed to reflect that from the start. The goal was to create something elevated and modern, while still capturing the warmth and personality that make San Antonio feel so special.
The client was drawn to clean lines and contemporary silhouettes, but she didn't want the home to feel too minimal or overly serious. Instead, we focused on
balance by mixing crisp architectural moments with bold color, layered textures, and unexpected contrast. Throughout the home, rich hues and playful accents bring energy into the space, while warm finishes and soft upholstery keep everything grounded and inviting. Each room feels curated and intentional, but still comfortable enough for everyday living.
We also made sure the home felt like a reflection of the homeowners themselves. Fun details and personalitydriven moments were woven throughout, keeping the design from ever feeling too formal or untouchable. Styling layers, accessories, and artful compositions add warmth and spontaneity, reinforcing the idea that a home should feel lived in, personal, and full of character, not overly perfect.
In the guest bedroom, we leaned all the way into the San Antonio story. The space became a celebration of local culture, featuring a curated collection of artwork sourced exclusively from San Antonio artists. It creates a real sense of place and gives visiting friends and family an experience that feels uniquely tied to the city. More than just a guest room, it's a tribute to the local creative community and a reminder of how important it is to support artists close to home.
That same commitment to local craft extended into the furnishings as well. A custom dining table, commissioned from a San Antonio artisan, anchors the dining space and instantly sets the tone. It is both functional and meaningful, a true gathering point designed for hosting, connection, and the kind of moments this couple values most.
To further honor the clients' story, subtle nods to Hemisfair were thoughtfully incorporated throughout the home as a tribute to the husband's San Antonio roots. The design includes small, intentional references to his birth year, 1968, which also happens to be the year of the city's iconic World's Fair. These details add another layer of storytelling, grounding the contemporary design in history, memory, and place.
Ultimately, this project is a modern home filled with bold design choices, meaningful details, and a strong sense of identity. By blending contemporary style with local artistry and personal narrative touches, the space reflects the homeowners' lifestyle while celebrating the vibrant spirit of San Antonio.
analydiego.com
This open-concept kitchen and dining space was designed as the heart of the home, balancing clean modern lines with warm wood tones and sculptural lighting to create an inviting setting for entertaining. A custom live-edge dining table anchors the room, adding organic texture and local craftsmanship while bold artwork brings a vibrant, personal touch.
A large-scale statement painting anchors the upstairs landing, bringing bold color and movement into the home's clean architectural lines. Flanked by sculptural greenery and modern rail detailing, the space feels curated and gallery-like while still remaining warm and inviting.
Artwork by Adrian Jesus Falcon, ANARTE GALLERY
In the guest bedroom, playful color and sculptural accents bring a bold, modern energy to a space designed for comfort and warmth. A vibrant blue lamp paired with natural woven shades and warm wood tones creates a layered look that feels both curated and welcoming.
Artwork by Allison Gregory, ANARTE GALLERY
This bar area was designed as a playful moment for entertaining, anchored by bold artwork and layered color that reflects the homeowners' vibrant personality. A sleek cabinet keeps the setup polished and functional, while the art brings an unexpected sense of charm and celebration.
Artwork by Victoria Champion, ANARTE GALLERY
This powder bath was designed as a bold, unexpected moment, featuring graphic wall detailing that brings energy and movement into the space. A playful piece of artwork adds personality and charm, turning a small room into a memorable design statement.
Artwork by Bibi Anderson, ANARTE GALLERY
This cozy casita study was designed as a playful retreat, blending warm textures and soft blush tones with tailored, modern details. Layered bedding and bold graphic accents add personality, creating a space that feels both inviting and effortlessly fun.
Artwork by Analy Diego, ANARTE GALLERY
Bold color and expressive artwork bring a playful energy to the living room, creating a vibrant focal point above the deep blue seating. Layered textiles and graphic patterns add warmth and personality, reinforcing the home's modern yet approachable design.
Photography by David Teran Photography by David Teran
Rebecca Cardona
What services does your company provide?
Alamo Assistive Technology helps individuals with complex communication needs find their voice through Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) solutions, serving families across Texas. We provide personalized communication devices, conduct evaluations, collaborate with speechlanguage pathologists, and guide families through the funding process. We also offer hands-on training and educational events for families, schools, and therapy teams to ensure tools are used confidently and successfully. Our mission is simple: making sure every person has a reliable way to express themselves and be heard.
What do you love most about your work?
I love witnessing the moment everything changes for a family. When someone gains the ability to communicate, it’s incredibly powerful. I’ve seen children tell their parents “I love you” for the first time, and students participate in class in ways they never
Chief Executive Officer
could before — those moments stay with you. This work isn’t just about technology; it’s about walking alongside families, building lasting relationships, and helping individuals feel heard and included. That is what makes it so meaningful.
What is the best advice you’ve ever received?
Remember why you started. If your foundation is strong and your purpose is clear, you don’t always need a new dream — you may just need a new strategy. Resilience is having the courage to adapt and keep going, even when the road looks different than you expected. What legacy would you like to build through your business?
I want Alamo Assistive Technology to elevate the standard of communication access across Texas. Beyond growth, I hope we leave a legacy of empowerment — families who feel supported, professionals who feel equipped, and individuals who feel heard. Creating inclusive classrooms, stronger family bonds, and greater independence for those we serve is a legacy worth building.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
Before building my company, I painted custom murals and sold handmade decorative boards featuring popular characters and themes. I designed each piece and used my jigsaw to cut the wood before painting it by hand. I loved transforming blank walls and raw materials into something joyful and meaningful for children and families.
What does success look like for you?
Success means creating stability for my family and opportunities for my team to grow personally and professionally. Most importantly, it means becoming better every day by helping others. When our work empowers communication, strengthens families, and equips professionals with confidence, that is real success.
What’s your favorite thing to do for fun in San Antonio?
When the weather allows, our family loves biking along San Antonio’s connecting trails. It is a simple way to unplug, enjoy our city, and be fully present with the people who matter most.
Business Woman Spotlight
DOSSIER Insurance Professionals
Finding the right insurance isn’t just about checking a box—it’s about protecting the home, business, and assets you’ve worked hard to build. A knowledgeable insurance professional can help you navigate complex coverage options, identify potential risks, and ensure you have the protection you need when it matters most.
SANGER & ALTGELT, LLC
Heather Haynes, ARM, ACLC, President
What types of clients do you work with?
I work with a wide spectrum of clients across Commercial, Personal, and Life and Health insurance, partnering with individuals and organizations that value expertise, clarity, and a proactive approach to protecting what they have built. My clients include fast-growing startups, established multigenerational businesses, ranch owners managing large properties with hunting, cattle, and conservation exposures, as well as families seeking comprehensive personal insurance solutions.
A meaningful part of my work involves supporting many of San Antonio’s exceptional nonprofit organizations. I am honored to provide insurance solutions that help these groups continue the work that strengthens our community and protect the missions that define our city’s spirit. I also advise a wide range of professionals, including bankers, attorneys, CPAs, and business owners. Each client receives tailored strategies aligned with their goals, assets, and long-term vision.
What sets you and your firm apart from other insurance professionals?
At Sanger & Altgelt, I focus on creating thoughtful, specialized coverage strategies grounded in a deep understanding of risk and a long-term view of my clients’ goals. I take the time to understand how each client operates and what they value most. As an affiliate of Jefferson Bank, Sanger & Altgelt can offer access to a broader portfolio of personalized financial services while maintaining the independence and advocacy clients expect from an insurance partner. That combination allows me to deliver a more integrated, relationship-driven experience built on trust, clarity, and continuity.
How do you build lasting relationships with your clients?
I build lasting relationships by asking meaningful questions, listening closely, and offering honest, responsive guidance. My clients know they can reach me when it matters, and I am committed to being consistently available when they need support. That mix of expertise, accessibility, and genuine care is at the heart of how I serve and why so many clients choose to work with me for the long term.
Sanger & Altgelt, LLC 1900 Broadway, Suite 630, San Antonio, TX 78215 (210) 734-6677 sangerandaltgelt.com
Photography by David Teran
The Power of Women: Collective Giving, Lasting Change
Impact San Antonio invites women to connect, learn, and lead through collective philanthropy that strengthens nonprofits and communities.
Courtesy Impact San Antonio
In a city known for its heart and passionate sense of community, Impact San Antonio stands out as a powerful reminder of what happens when women come together with intention. For more than 22 years, Impact San Antonio has united women from across San Antonio to pool their philanthropy and leadership, turning collective generosity into transformational change for local nonprofits.
A compelling example of that impact can be found inside a lovingly restored 1920s icehouse now known as the Museo del Westside. The museum, a project of the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center, is redefining what it means to be “museum-worthy” by centering the stories, art, and culture of a historically Mexican American, working-class community. It’s deeply rooted. And, like many visionary projects, it needed someone to believe.
“Impact San Antonio was the first group to really see us and our vision and say yes,” said Graciela Sánchez, Executive
Director of the Esperanza Peace and Justice Center. “Their support didn’t just help us move forward, it sent a signal. Other funders followed Impact San Antonio’s lead, and that momentum is what helped make the Museo a reality.”
That ripple effect is at the heart of Impact SA’s model. Members don’t just write a check; they invest time in understanding the organizations they support. When Impact SA steps forward, the organization brings credibility, confidence, and a powerful vote of trust. For nonprofits, that validation can open doors to national foundations and longterm sustainability.
That spirit of connection and purpose was recently recognized on a national stage when Impact San Antonio received the Philanos Spotlight Award, which honors organizations whose leadership, giving practices, and community engagement exemplify the mission and values of women’s collective philanthropy.
“Members often describe the organization as a place where philanthropy becomes personal, and where friendships form around shared values,” said Yvonne Grothues, President, Impact San Antonio. “It’s a chance to engage deeply with the city you love, and to be part of something bigger than any one individual,” said Grothues.
Every year, Impact SA welcomes women who want to make a meaningful impact in their community and build friendships along the way. To learn more, attend an upcoming event and discover how collective giving can turn passion into lasting change at www.impactsanantonio.org.
BEYOND THE BOOTS Military Trailblazer to Leader
Photography by David Teran
MAJOR GENERAL ANGIE SALINAS
United States Marine Corps (Retired)
CEO Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas
How has your military career prepared you for your current job?
I moved to San Antonio after serving in the Marine Corps for 39 years, fully intending to do nothing but play bad golf, cut the grass, and get rid of every brown moving box I owned. Retiring as Major General, the only Latina to become a general in the Marine Corps and the senior woman in the Marine Corps at the time of my retirement, I was ready to do nothing. The idea of working full-time eventually crossed my mind with the multiple job offers that came in from corporate businesses locally and nationally. However, those who have worn the cloth of the nation understand, when I say, we have served a greater purpose, and the calls I received did not resonate with me until the headhunter representing the local Girl Scout Council made contact. It was the first time I got excited, feeling that this was something that mattered. The opportunity to be part of the next generation of female leaders in our community. To be part of the premier girls' organization known for leadership. I came from a military branch known for “honor, courage, and commitment,” and now I was joining one whose mission was “building Girls of Courage, Confidence and Character who make the world a better place.” I came in saying, “It’s Girl Scouts, how hard can it be?” Non-profit is not for the weak at heart. Military experience teaches resilience, crisis action planning, adjusting fires, taking care of the team, preparing for the worst, communication, “what if” and everything in between. Our Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas staff and volunteers are as resolute and missionfocused as any community I have encountered.
What advice do you have for other women who are transitioning out of the military into the civilian workforce?
Step out of your comfort zone. I see many who want to stick with what they know. Do what you always wanted to do but are afraid. Go back to school, go to a trade school, join that band. Network. Find groups and make
yourself known through your military contacts. Take time to figure it out. Don’t feel you need to rush right out and find “the job.”
Who or what has helped you the most in your career?
My work ethic helped, as did my performance. As the only woman or one of only a few in many assignments, I stuck out. I had to learn how to be good at my job. And my peers. I had some really good friends, mostly men, who were strong advocates who would guide me, and more importantly, I learned to be friends with their wives.
Any additional thoughts or questions you’d like to add?
I returned to my home state to be around family. San Antonio was central, although we didn’t know anyone. It's been home since day one. I’ve volunteered at the Food Bank, the USO, served on boards, am a Spurs ticket holder, and yes, manage to play a few rounds of golf.
I am a Marine and always will be a Marine. I earned the title. I joined an organization that did not want me at a time when the Marine Corps was roughly 174,000, and less than 2000 were women. However, the recruiter told me that once I earned the title Marine, I would forever be a Marine. I joined an organization rich in history, honor, and traditions; a combat organization known for heroes, flag raising, and ferocious battles. We are tough, proud, and few. I am a United States Marine.
This Feature Sponsored by:
Women in Residential Real Estate
Perspectives on Success at Keller Williams Heritage
By Rudy Arispe | Photography by David Teran
San Antonio Woman Asked Three Top Agents at Keller Williams Heritage About Finding Success as a Woman In Residential Real Estate
Ana Warmke is the founder and team leader of Warmke Real Estate Group at Keller Williams Heritage in San Antonio. She leads a residential real estate team focused exclusively on helping families buy and sell homes, building her business on strong systems, consistent follow-up, and long-term relationships.
Warmke approaches real estate as a true business owner. She is highly data-driven, intentional about profitability, and focused on building a sustainable, scalable operation. Her leadership style is structured, accountable, and growth-oriented — both for herself and for the agents she mentors. She believes real estate should be treated like a
Ana Warmke, Founder of Warmke Real Estate Group, Keller Williams Heritage
serious business, not a hobby, and she holds herself and her team to high professional standards.
She participates in the Impact Coaching program, where she continues to refine her leadership, systems, and performance strategy. Warmke believes strong leaders never stop learning, and she invests consistently in coaching, education, and personal development.
Mentorship is one of her core passions. She enjoys helping agents move from reactive, transactional thinking to operating with clarity, discipline, and long-term vision. For Ana, mentorship is about raising standards and building confidence through structure and accountability.
Beyond her team, Warmke is deeply involved in industry leadership and advocacy. She serves on the Board of Directors for the San Antonio Board of REALTORS® (SABOR) and is Vice President of NAHREP San Antonio. In both roles, she contributes to conversations around property rights, housing accessibility, leadership development, and professionalism within the industry.
What led you to choose real estate as a career? I had
never really thought about real estate as a career. When I went to college, I was a psychology major. During that time, my parents moved away to Mexico. I was on my own. I was broke. I realized I would not be able to keep going to school to become a psychologist because I really needed money. I ended up changing my major to business with a focus in marketing so I could finish faster. I was a sales manager for a little bit after college, and then I took a break and stayed home with my kids. I had no idea that the time I stayed home with my kids set me up for success with real estate. I was involved in everything. Church groups, kids’ sports, PTA, I was really connected with the people in my area. I had strong relationships going into my real estate career. I still get to use psychology all the time. It helps me be a better real estate agent by understanding my clients better and taking the time to understand their feelings throughout the process.
What do you enjoy about mentoring agents? I enjoy mentoring other agents because I like helping them grow and learn from some of my own mistakes. It’s also wonderful to be collaborative in our industry. It can be a stressful job, but working with others and helping each other can make a big difference.
Christine Denny, Realtor, Keller Williams Heritage
Christine Denney is a San Antonio REALTOR® with more than a decade of experience guiding clients through residential real estate decisions during a period of significant industry change. Known for her clear communication and relationship-driven approach, she is deeply committed to client advocacy.
Denney began her real estate career at her husband’s brokerage before stepping away to raise her family. After relocating from Minneapolis to San Antonio in 2000, she returned to the industry in 2012 with a renewed focus on service. She recently concluded a three-year term on her local Board of Directors and continues to serve on the Texas REALTORS® Board, contributing to conversations that shape transparency, professionalism, and consumer trust.
Denney believes strong representation matters more than ever in a shifting market. She is dedicated to helping clients move forward with clarity, confidence, and care.
Talk about your experience guiding clients through real estate decisions during significant industry changes. The industry changes all the time. I came on board in 2012, and I can’t even tell you how many form changes there have been between then and now. For me, it’s about making sure people have all the info they need, so they can make the best decisions for their family. For every
client I have, I try to make them my extended family. Whether it’s a first-time home buyer or someone buying a luxury home in the millions, their needs are paramount. I can offer them advice and suggestions, but ultimately, it’s they who guide the ship.
What is your renewed focus on service? I have been part of the San Antonio Board of Realtors for many years. My whole idea of service not only comes to serving my clients and making sure I have the best information I can, but it also continues with my associates. So if I have new knowledge, such as changes in the industry, I will pass it on. Service is an attitude in how I can touch someone’s life and make it better.
How has serving for three years on the San Antonio Board of Realtors helped you as a realtor? When you’re in charge of helping steer a ship for 15,000 people, it makes you acutely aware of decisions being made at the table. Because I’m in the trenches and selling homes, I understand every day what it’s like to go out there and do business and to do business in a changing environment. Being on the board gives me early knowledge to a point; even though I’m no longer on the board, I plan to sit in on meetings because real estate is fluid, and there’s no one person who knows everything, and you can’t practice real estate in a vacuum.
Terry Zepeda: Lead Agent, The Zepeda Team, Keller Williams Heritage
Terry Zepeda is a proud San Antonio native and a respected real estate leader, speaker, trainer, and coach. She serves as the Lead Agent of The Zepeda Team under Keller Williams Heritage, partnering alongside her husband in both life and business. Together, they combine their strengths to better serve buyers and sellers across San Antonio and the surrounding communities they proudly call home. With over 18 years in the real estate industry, Zepeda has built a reputation for excellence, consistency, and heart-led leadership. Her experience ranges from first-time homebuyers to luxury and retirement transitions — and everything in between. As a New Home Expert with over a decade of builder experience, paired with her husband’s 15+ years in the construction industry, they offer clients a powerful depth of knowledge that goes far beyond the average transaction. Zepeda holds multiple real estate designations and is a Certified Speaker, Trainer, and Coach with The Winning Minds Group. She lives by the mindset of “always striving for more” and believes one of her greatest gifts is not worrying about the “what if,” but instead stepping forward in faith and action.
Why did you choose a career in real estate? I chose a career in real estate because I truly believe homeownership changes lives. From the beginning, I knew I didn’t just want a job — I wanted a career where I could genuinely serve families in a meaningful way. There is nothing more rewarding than watching someone go from renting to owning or helping a family build generational wealth through property.
I truly help people figure out ways to make their dream of homeownership a reality. Whether that means walking them through credit improvement, connecting them with the right lenders, exploring creative financing options, or strategizing the right time to buy — I don’t just sell homes, I help create a plan.
Real estate allows me to combine strategy, negotiation, marketing, and relationships all in one. I love that no two days are ever the same. I also love that I get to work alongside my husband, blending my experience in sales with his construction background, so our clients have a true advantage.
For me, this isn’t about transactions. It’s about faith, family, legacy, and guiding people confidently into their next chapter. That’s why I chose real estate — and why I’m still passionate about it today.
What do you enjoy about your career? What I enjoy most about what I do is the impact. Every transaction
represents a family, a new beginning, a milestone — and being trusted to guide people through that is something I don’t take lightly.
I also love the flexibility of my schedule. Real estate allows me to be present for my family while still building something meaningful and impactful. That balance is priceless to me. At the same time, there’s truly unlimited growth. The harder and smarter you work, the more opportunities you can create. There isn’t a ceiling placed on your success — and I love that.
Another thing I enjoy is continuous learning. The market shifts, contracts evolve, strategies change — you’re constantly sharpening your skills. And the beauty of real estate is that there are so many different avenues to explore. Residential, commercial, investments, new construction, land development, mentoring other agents, building a team — I am never bored.
It challenges me, stretches me, and rewards creativity and discipline at the same time. That’s what keeps it exciting year after year.
What sets you apart from other real estate agents? What truly sets us apart is that clients don’t just get one agent — they get two. My husband and I work together, so it’s a true two-for-one experience. I bring years of fulltime real estate sales experience, and he brings a strong construction background. That combination gives our clients a huge advantage — whether it’s negotiating, evaluating the quality of a build, understanding renovations, or spotting potential issues before they become problems.
Another difference is tenure and commitment. We are full-time, career real estate professionals — not part-time agents juggling this as a side job. This is what we do every single day. We stay immersed in the market, contracts, trends, and negotiations. Experience matters, and so does consistency.
Most importantly, we make it about the client — not what is easiest or most beneficial for us. Every strategy, every recommendation, every negotiation is centered around what aligns best with their goals. That’s why the entire experience feels different. It’s personal. It’s intentional. It’s tailored.
Because when you put the client first — truly first — the results speak for themselves.
Natalee Newell
Luxury Home Specialist
Engel & Völkers Alamo Heights
5936 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Cell: 210-215-1212
natalee.newell@evrealestate.com www.nataleenewell.com
Natalee Newell, a proud San Antonio native, has been connecting exceptional individuals with exceptional properties since 1999. Her remarkable journey in the real estate world began with a bang when she earned the title of Rookie of the Year in 2000, and she has maintained that level of excellence ever since. Natalee leverages her wealth of experience and expertise to deliver outstanding results for her clients. Confidentiality and negotiation are her specialties. Renowned as a Luxury Home Specialist, Natalee is a frequent finalist and winner of the Platinum Top 50 REALTOR' award. Her name has graced the elite ranks of the top 1% of Luxury Real Estate Agents in San Antonio, as recognized by the San Antonio Business Journal. With a consistent track record of closing over $20 million in real estate transactions annually, Natalee's career has thrived, allowing her to dedicate a significant portion of her time to serving past clients, friends, and their numerous referrals.
The Newell family has properties across the United States and globe giving Natalee the experience and knowledge to advise in real estate transactions from the US to the Caribbean and Europe.
Beyond her impressive real estate accomplishments, Natalee possesses an innate talent for languages and a passion for globetrotting. She is fluent in Spanish, and from her time at La Varenne Culinary School in Paris she is equipped with conversational French, alongside a smattering of Italian. Committed to her community, Natalee is involved with her church and actively participates in the Laurel Heights Garden Club, the Gardenia Musical Society and Footbridge Animal Rescue.
Leesa Harper Rispoli President, Broker/Owner
Marlee Allen Chief Operating Officer
Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS®
18756 Stone Oak Parkway, Ste 301 San Antonio, TX 78258
(210) 483-7004
www.cbharper.com
As Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS® celebrates its 40th Anniversary, the milestone represents more than longevity. It reflects three generations of women leading one of Texas’s most respected real estate companies. Founded by D’Ann Harper, the firm was built on professionalism, trust, and service that still define its reputation. As the second generation, Leesa Harper Rispoli joined her mother in expanding the company’s footprint and shaping a concierge-style brokerage offering expertise across residential real estate, commercial, land and ranch, and property management.
Today, mother and daughter do it again. As President and Broker/Owner, Leesa carries the legacy forward with a commitment to exceptional professional client service. Coldwell Banker® National recognized her as its inaugural “Woman on the Move” in 2021. She was also honored with the Impact Award from the San Antonio Business Journal for her philanthropic leadership. Representing the third generation, Marlee Allen, a Baylor University graduate with a commercial lending background, was recently appointed Chief Operating Officer. She has earned recognition, including Coldwell Banker National’s 30 Under 30, RISMedia’s Emerging Leaders Award, and the 3 Under 30 Award from Coldwell Banker Commercial, and was newly appointed to the Coldwell Banker Commercial Advisory Board.
Coldwell Banker D’Ann Harper, REALTORS® continues to earn national recognition through rankings from RISMedia, RealTrends, and Coldwell Banker. The brokerage continuously ranks in the top 1% of more than 3,000 Coldwell Banker affiliates nationwide for Residential Real Estate and has once again secured a place among the Top 10 Coldwell Banker Commercial affiliates.
Leesa believes true legacy is measured by impact. For the CBDHR family, philanthropy is not an initiative, but a responsibility to give back to the community that built their success, how they lead. From the foundation D’Ann Harper built to the next chapter shaped by Leesa and Marlee, that commitment continues through the generations.
Amy Kolb REALTOR®, ABR, ALHS, RENE
Kolb Real Estate Co. amy@amykolb.net (210) 860-0668
Amy has been a trusted force in San Antonio real estate for over 25 years. Amy opened Kolb Real Estate in 2020—and the momentum hasn’t stopped since.
Today, Kolb Real Estate is a growing boutique brokerage with 10 licensed agents, built on experience, integrity, and exceptional results. Your San Antonio & Hill Country Real Estate Expert. A true San Antonio native, Amy was born and raised here and brings unmatched local knowledge of the city and the Hill Country. Known for her energy, professionalism, and calm confidence, she serves first-time buyers, seasoned sellers, and repeat clients with the same dedication and care. Amy has a rare talent for making the buying and selling process feel low-stress, seamless, and even enjoyable. Her clients trust her because she listens, advocates fiercely, and never stops working until their goals are met.
If you’re looking for experience you can trust and results you can count on, Amy Kolb is your go-to.
“ It’s not about the real estate, it's about relationships™”
Kathy Ripps REALTOR®
Kuper Sotheby's International Realty
4 Dominion Dr. Bldg 2, San Antonio, TX 78257 kathy.ripps@kupersir.com | kathysa.com 210-240-4464
Local Expertise. Global Connections. San Antonio Realtor Kathy Ripps brings a rare blend of heart, experience, and business savvy to every client relationship. With master’s degrees in Education and Counseling Psychology, Kathy spent 31 years in the San Antonio school system as a special education teacher and counselor—an experience that shaped her deep empathy, strong communication skills, and client-first approach. Her transition into real estate was a natural evolution, strengthened by years of hands-on experience in real estate investing and property management. Today, Kathy is a trusted luxury home specialist known for guiding clients through complex transactions with clarity, confidence, and care. Deeply rooted in the San Antonio community, Kathy is actively involved in numerous civic, professional, philanthropic, and arts organizations. She is especially honored to serve military families, drawing from both professional experience at Fort Sam Houston and a proud family legacy of service. Guided by integrity, honesty, and transparency, Kathy is passionate about helping others find not just a home—but inspiration—in San Antonio’s vibrant growth and lifestyle.
Elizabeth Barrera Lutz
REALTOR®
King William Realty
935 S. Alamo St. San Antonio, TX 78205
(210) 225-0009
elizabeth@kingwmrealty.com www.kingwmrealty.com
Elizabeth demonstrates a strong commitment and absolute loyalty to her clients and their properties. Like the Victorian literature she romanticized over in college, the enduring allure of these historic homes, be they Queen Anne, Victorian, or Italianate, speaks to her on a visceral level. She brings a clear passion to her work, whether assisting buyers in finding the right home or leading clients confidently through the sale process. Her affinity for the architecture of historic homes and dedication to authenticity are evident throughout her professional practice.
Elizabeth’s business has been primarily referral-based from the start. Instead of requesting online reviews, she receives handwritten thank-you notes, invitations to home-warming parties, and thoughtful gifts from her happy clients. This is a testament to the genuine relationships and exceptional service she provides.
Elizabeth owns her own S. Alamo St. office building, ensuring accessibility and a strong local presence. An active community supporter, she is one of the annual sponsors of the King William Fair and the Holiday Home Tour, and has regularly advertised in the King William Association Newsletter. In recent years, she’s also supported the Power of Preservation Foundation Prom event and was a silver-level benefactor of the Antique and Garden Show, which she attended in Nashville. Elizabeth serves as secretary on the Villa Finale Museum and Gardens Board, including the executive committee that oversaw the design and construction of the new Villa Finale Visitors Center. Her passion for design and antiques, combined with her knowledge of historic architecture, provides clients with valuable insight when searching for or enhancing unique properties.
With sixteen years of experience, Elizabeth’s clients return for second homes, offices, and investment properties—confident in her thoughtful approach and attention to their needs. As her business continues to grow, Elizabeth is expanding her expertise into other neighborhoods and architectural styles.
Outside of real estate, Elizabeth is a devoted mom and wife who deeply values motherhood and cherishes her role in her family. Elizabeth enjoys traveling, horseback riding, tennis, cooking, antiquing, and interior decorating. She makes it a priority to be present for her loved ones and actively pursues what enriches her life and ties into the business she loves.
Laura Vincelette REALTOR®
Phillips & Associates Realty
8 Dominion Dr, San Antonio, TX 78257
(661) 917-0234
laura.vincelette@gmail.com | laura.phillipsrealty.co
Multi-Million Dollar Producer (2025) Voted “Rookie of the Year”
Laura Vincelette is a REALTOR® with a passion for educating and advocating for her clients. With a professional background in corporate training and a commitment to helping others succeed, she stands out as a highly soughtafter expert in the real estate field. Originally from a small desert town in California, Laura moved to Texas with the military nearly 20 years ago. She holds degrees in business administration and communications, alongside extensive experience in the banking industry, where she developed expertise in mortgage and financial literacy. Beyond her real estate work, Laura embraces adventure through aerial acrobatics, traveling, and attending concerts, and she actively serves on a San Antonio Rodeo committee. As a proud mother of two daughters, she values time spent with family and friends. Laura strives to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for her clients, fostering lasting relationships and helping them achieve their real estate goals with warmth and dedication.
1, 2, & 3 Bedrooms
Designer Pool
Fitness Studio & Lawn
Onsite Paw Park
Business Lounge
Gaming Room
Spacious Courtyard with Firepit
Tracie S. Hasslocher
Licensed Real Estate Broker/Owner
Hasslocher Boutique Real Estate
8520 Crownhill Blvd., San Antonio 78209
O (210) 568-9595 | C (210) 863-2629
tracie@09boutique.com | hasslocherrealestate.com
Memberships: San Antonio Board of Realtors, Texas Realtors, National Association of Realtors
Designations: Master’s Degree in Residential Real Estate
Marketing & Broker Management
Bachelor of Arts - NC State U, Certified Luxury Home Marketing Specialist, Certified Residential Specialist, Certified Residential Probate
Specialist, Graduate of Realtor Institute, Leadership Training Graduate
Tracie has been selling real estate in San Antonio since 2005 in Bexar, Comal, Kendall County, Atascosa and Medina counties. Her philosophy is to provide exceptional service, placing the needs of her clients first to achieve their desired goals by providing her professional advice based on her knowledge of the current market.
Real estate changes on a day to day basis and education is an important component of Tracie’s business. Tracie served as Chair of San Antonio Board of Realtors in 2022, is currently a TREPAC Trustee and a Regional Vice President for Texas Realtors, and is a Lifestyle expert and host for Emmy nominated American Dream TV network.
Providing solutions. Opening doors.
Our tenured team of mortgage professionals has helped thousands of buyers achieve their dream of homeownership. With our wide range of mortgage products and local experts involved at every stage, we’re a trusted partner for buyers throughout San Antonio.
HESS STREET FOODS
By Rudy Arispe
Photography By David Teran
This Feature Sponsored by:
"Bank of America has played a key role in helping Hess Street Foods meet delivery deadlines by connecting us with the financial resources needed to build inventory and purchase essential ingredients, jars, and lids to fulfill growing demand from retailers like H-E-B. Beyond financing, Bank of America has also introduced us to nonprofit partners such as LiftFund and other agencies that have been instrumental in supporting our growth. Bank of America has believed in our vision and commitment since day one." -- Maria Flores
Maria Flores Carries on Her Grandmother's Savory Recipe for Chorizo Seasoning
Maria Flores has fond memories as a 12-year-old child, sitting in her beloved Abuela Licha’s small kitchen in Mexico, watching her work her culinary magic with the chorizo she used to make, while the sweet aroma of spices wafted throughout the house.
“My grandmother would wear her apron and arrange the peppers and garlic and spices on the table and grind them,” Flores recalled. “While she was working, she would tell stories of resilience. She wanted us to be proud of our identity. She would always remind us that everything is possible if you commit to it.”
Now decades later, Flores is honoring her grandmother and their Mexican heritage by carrying on the tradition of making the family’s secret recipe for chorizo seasoning paste. In 2023, she launched Hess Street Foods, maker of a variety of chorizo and seasoning products.
Luckily for Flores, her grandmother wrote the recipe down and gave it to her. Flores admits, however, that it took some trial-and-error before she was able to perfect the recipe, just like her abuela’s.
“I had the recipe in a little tin can,” the Hess Street Foods founder and chorizo-preneur said. “It took about eight to 10 attempts at getting it right. There were times when I needed help, but I couldn’t call and ask her about an exact measurement or a specific spice because she didn’t write everything down. But one day, we got the exact same flavor. I got very nostalgic and emotional. I was suddenly back in my grandmother’s kitchen. The smell was the exact same aroma, and I want to bring that same sentiment to everyone who buys our products.”
Hess Street Foods chorizo seasoning paste and Mexican chorizo seasoning is quickly gaining brand recognition and becoming a household favorite after the culinary company won first place in H-E-B’s annual Quest for Texas Best competition in 2024, along with a check for $20,000.
“I’m still pinching myself,” Flores said, adding that she was encouraged to enter H-E-B’s competition through her participation with Launch SA’s Break Fast and Launch initiative that helps food entrepreneurs turn their ideas into thriving businesses. “We used the $20,000 to help with procuring our first purchase order for H-E-B.”
Today, Hess Street Foods chorizo seasoning paste and Mexican chorizo seasoning is available at all H-E-B stores where there are Cooking Connection Stations, all Central Market stores throughout Texas, and at Pullman Market at the Pearl. The products are also sold at the New Braunfels Farmers Market and can be ordered on the company’s website.
Being a first-time business owner can be quite daunting, Flores admits, but she remembers the words of resilience that Abuela Licha once spoke.
“It’s my fourth child,” said Flores, a mother to Ana, 20, Felicia, 17, and Luis, 15. “I’m responsible for the business being successful. It needs love and attention every day. But we have a clear path of where we’re going. Things change all the time, so it’s important to have a vision of what the future looks like.”
Hess Street Foods, Flores said, is planning a rebranding of its products in May, although nothing drastic. Jars will be in a smaller size as well as a different label. “The changes are subtle, but it will be clearer for people to know how to use the product. We’ll also be changing the name from chorizo paste to chorizo seasoning,” she said.
The company’s name refers to Hess Street in San Antonio near San Pedro Springs Park, where her grandparents lived for six years before moving back to Mexico. Flores explained that they moved here from Mexico in search of better economic opportunities.
Flores was elated when a customer in Leander, Texas, recently emailed her about her satisfaction with her purchase of several products. The woman wrote, “I’m writing to say that your chorizo paste is so delicious, and I’ve purchased 10 jars of it from H-E-B and ordered some from your online store for my brother in Arizona.
I gave it as Christmas gifts. I have it on hand in my refrigerator. It’s the best thing I’ve ever come across.”
It’s customer feedback like this that reassures Flores that she is offering consumers a product they enjoy, and that she is on the right track for following her heart by launching Hess Street Foods. She should also be happy knowing that Abuela Licha would certainly be proud of her for sharing her chorizo recipe with consumers across Texas.
For more information, visit hessstreetfoods.com.
What Is Colorectal Cancer
By Dr. Jaime Mayoral, Colon and Rectal Surgeon at Methodist Hospital
Colorectal cancer is a malignancy that develops in the colon or rectum, which together form the large intestine (the final segment of the gastrointestinal system). Most colorectal cancers begin as noncancerous growths called polyps in the inner lining of the colon or rectum that slowly progress to cancer over time. In the United States, approximately 150,000 people are diagnosed with colorectal cancer annually, and about 50,000 die from the disease each year. Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer in both men and women, but ranks as the second leading cause of cancer death overall in the United States. (1)
Why Rates Are Increasing in Younger Populations
The rising incidence of colorectal cancer in younger adults (defined as those under age 50) represents a multifactorial phenomenon driven by birth cohort effects, lifestyle changes, and environmental exposures beginning early in life. In the United States, early-onset colorectal cancer incidence increased from 7.9 to 12.9 cases per 100,000 people between 1988 and 2015—a 63% increase—and now accounts for approximately 14% of all colorectal cancer cases. (2) Based on these numbers, approximately 20,000 people under age 50 will be diagnosed with colorectal cancer each year. (3) The most important factors affecting the development of colorectal cancer in younger patients are modifiable risk factors - behavioral, physical, or environmental factors that increase the likelihood of developing a disease or condition but can be changed, treated, or controlled. For the development of colorectal cancer, modifiable risk factors include obesity, Western dietary patterns, sugar-sweetened beverages, sedentary behavior, and smoking—all exposures that have increased in younger generations of patients (4). Patients who have a body mass index greater than 30, which is classified as obese, are 1.9 times more likely to develop colon cancer than patients who have a BMI less than 25. Western dietary patterns—characterized
by processed meat, red meat, refined grains, and highfat dairy are all linked to an increased risk of colon cancer. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recently reclassified processed meats, such as deli meats, bacon, hot dogs, etc., as Class 1 carcinogens, putting them in the same category as smoking and asbestos. It is important to note that this classification indicates strength of evidence that the aforementioned meats increase risk of cancer, not the magnitude of the risk.
Key Signs and Symptoms
The most common signs and symptoms of colorectal cancer are hematochezia (rectal bleeding), abdominal pain, and altered bowel habits (constipation, diarrhea, or alternating patterns). Additional important symptoms include unexplained iron deficiency anemia, unintentional weight loss, and fatigue (5). Any patient, regardless of age, who has one or more of these symptoms should be referred for a colonoscopy.
Prevention and Screening Recommendations
The best way to reduce the risk of colon cancer is to address modifiable risk factors. Exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and limiting intake of processed meats will collectively reduce one’s risk of colon cancer. For average-risk adults (those without personal or family history of colorectal cancer, inflammatory bowel disease, or genetic syndromes), screening should begin at age 45 years according to the US Preventive Services Task Force. Individuals with increased risk based on family history, such as a parent or sibling diagnosed with colon cancer, should begin screening earlier – at age 40 or 10 years before the family member’s age at diagnosis, whichever is earlier. For example, if a patient’s father was diagnosed with colon cancer at age 47, that patient would get a colonoscopy at age 37.
There are multiple modalities for colon cancer screening. The most common is a colonoscopy, which is a procedure done under sedation that directly looks at the entire colon with a camera. The advantage of a colonoscopy procedure is that any polyps, which sometimes are pre-cancerous lesions, can be biopsied or removed during the procedure. In general, if the colonoscopy is negative, it can be done every 10 years. Other screening modalities include at-home stool tests, in which a sample is collected at home and sent to a lab for testing. At-home tests are more convenient for patients but must be done more frequently (every 3 years), and if they are positive, a colonoscopy is the required next step. (1) It is recommended for individuals to talk with their primary care provider about the options and develop a screening plan that is easiest to stick with.
Implications for Female Patients
Colorectal cancer treatment in young female patients has significant implications for fertility, sexual health, and psychosocial well-being. The most critical concerns include treatment-induced infertility, premature menopause from pelvic radiation, sexual dysfunction, body image distress, and significant psychological impacts that differ substantially from those of older patients. Pelvic radiation, which is used for advanced-stage rectal cancers, can cause premature menopause and infertility in younger females (7). All reproductive-aged women with colorectal cancer should receive fertility preservation counseling before initiating treatment. Another significant but less frequently discussed effect of colorectal cancer treatment is sexual dysfunction. Sexual dysfunction is extremely common after colorectal cancer treatment in young women. Sixty-five percent of young-onset colorectal cancer survivors experience some level of sexual dysfunction, which can include dyspareunia (painful sex), vaginal dryness, decreased sex drive, and body image concerns (7). In addition to the psychological impact of a cancer diagnosis, significant stress can come from the impact that undergoing treatment has on patients’ employment and finances.
If you or a loved one is facing a cancer diagnosis, Methodist Healthcare offers integrated cancer services that bring together expert physicians, advanced treatment options, and supportive resources—all
designed to guide you through every step of your cancer journey.
Learn more at www.sahealth.com/cancercare.
References
1 - American Cancer Society. Colorectal Cancer Facts & Figures 2023-2025. Atlanta: American Cancer Society; 2023.
2 - N Engl J Med 2022;386:1547-1558 DOI: 10.1056/NEJMra2200869
3 - https://publichealth.jhu.edu/2024/colorectalcancer-in-younger-people#:~:text=In%20the%20 United%20States%2C%20about,the%20last%20 20%E2%80%9325%20years.
4 - Jayakrishnan T, Ng K. Early-Onset Gastrointestinal Cancers: A Review. JAMA. 2025;334(15):1373–1385. doi:10.1001/ jama.2025.10218
5 - Demb J, Kolb JM, Dounel J, et al. Red Flag Signs and Symptoms for Patients With Early-Onset Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review and MetaAnalysis. JAMA Netw Open. 2024;7(5):e2413157. doi:10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2024.13157
6 - Fritz CDL, Otegbeye EE, Zong X, Demb J, Nickel KB, Olsen MA, Mutch M, Davidson NO, Gupta S, Cao Y. Red-flag signs and symptoms for earlier diagnosis of early-onset colorectal cancer. J Natl Cancer Inst. 2023 Aug 8;115(8):909-916. doi: 10.1093/jnci/djad068. PMID: 37138415; PMCID: PMC10407716.
7 - Shandley LM, McKenzie LJ. Recent Advances in Fertility Preservation and Counseling for Reproductive-Aged Women with Colorectal Cancer: A Systematic Review. Dis Colon Rectum. 2019 Jun;62(6):762-771. doi: 10.1097/ DCR.0000000000001351. PMID: 30730458.
Your Health is Your Greatest Business Asset
By Chelcee Porter, PharmD, IFMCP
There may be a way where your health could be the very thing that gets you to the version of life you’ve been building towards. Between your kids, your business, and your life, you don’t have time for your health to hold you back. And, your health goes beyond just feeling better. It's your performance, capacity, and longevity.
Most women try to improve their health by setting tighter restrictions like cutting calories or increasing cardio. But these extremes end up doing more harm than good. That’s why it could feel like you are doing everything, yet still not hitting your goals. In any complex system, whether it’s a business or your body, small changes in the right place outperform massive effort in the wrong place. When you address the root of what is going on, your body stops being a liability and becomes the driver for your growth. Let’s take a look at 3 ways your health is actually your greatest business asset.
Energy as a Competitive Advantage
If you are living on caffeine and pushing through the day, your body can’t recover. In fact, it’s in a constant state of survival. Your body can’t tell the difference between checking your work email before you get out of bed in the morning or running from a bear. Both put you directly into fight or flight mode, which leads to irritability, brain fog, and the dreaded 3 pm crash. When you support your body from the root cause, your energy becomes a constant. Your schedule feels more flexible because you aren’t planning your days based on how exhausted you feel. Your brain is sharp, clear, and in control.
Nervous System Regulation Drives Better Decisions
When you start unravelling the root of your symptoms, your nervous system takes a breath. Cortisol, your stress hormone, gets out of the driver's seat. That means that you respond to the day-to-day pressures without spiraling out of control. You shift from being reactive to proactive. This moves you to operating at your full capacity.
A Regulated Brain Multiplies Output
When you pair stabilized blood sugar, a recalibrated nervous system, and a resilient gut together, your brain becomes a superpower that no one can touch. It overflows into your productivity, leadership, and decision-making. You can’t out-supplement a broken foundation. You can’t out-hustle a dysregulated nervous system. And you can’t scale a life or business when you are running on fumes. When you incorporate a root cause approach with expert guidance, your health isn’t just your side project. It becomes the foundation of your success.
If you want to build your next level in a body that can actually support it, let’s see if working together one-onone would be a good fit for you. Book a free discovery call at www.chelceeporter.com.
The Caregiver’s Reminder:
Don’t Forget Yourself
This Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month
By: Zarema Singson MD, Gastroenterology Consultants of San Antonio
In South Texas, where family ties run deep, and women often serve as the heartbeat of the household, it is easy to put your own health at the bottom of the list.
You schedule the appointments. You remind everyone about their checkups. You notice when something feels “off.” You are often the one making sure everyone else is okay.
But when was the last time you asked that same question of yourself? Many women tell themselves they are too busy. That they feel fine. That they will schedule it next quarter. Next year. After the kids are settled. After work slows down.
March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month — and it offers an important reminder that protecting your health is not optional. It is foundational.
Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed cancer and the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. This year alone, more than 150,000 Americans will be diagnosed. Nearly 20,000 of those cases will occur in people under age 50. Rates in younger adults are rising steadily, and by 2030, it is projected to become the leading cause of cancer death among adults ages 20–49.
The encouraging news? Screening saves lives.
When colorectal cancer is detected early, the five-year survival rate exceeds 90 percent. In advanced stages, that number drops dramatically. Even more powerful: screening doesn’t just detect cancer — it can prevent it. Colonoscopy allows us to remove precancerous polyps before they ever become cancer. Regular screening reduces deaths from colorectal cancer by 30–50 percent.
Current guidelines recommend that most adults begin screening at age 45 and continue through age 75. And there is more than one option. Talk to your doctor about the best test for you.
If you are 45 or older and have not yet been screened, consider this your reminder to call your physician and start the conversation.
Family history matters. If you have a parent, sibling, or child diagnosed with colorectal cancer, you may need to begin screening earlier — typically at age 40, or 10 years before your relative’s diagnosis.
Equally important is knowing the warning signs: rectal bleeding, unexplained anemia, abdominal pain, persistent changes in bowel habits, or unintentional weight loss. These symptoms deserve medical attention at any age.
Lifestyle choices also influence risk. Smoking, heavy alcohol use, obesity, physical inactivity, and diets high in processed or red meats increase risk. Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and prioritizing fiber-rich foods can help lower it.
We, as gastroenterologists, see firsthand how different outcomes can be when cancer is found early versus late. Screening rates have improved nationally, yet gaps remain — particularly among uninsured individuals and certain communities. Thousands of lives could be saved each year with universal screening.
As women — leaders in our families, workplaces, and communities — we often carry responsibility for others’ well-being. But prevention begins with us.
This month, consider placing your own health on your to-do list.
Schedule the screening. Have the conversation. Encourage the people you love to do the same.
Caring for others is part of your legacy. Caring for yourself is too.
Providing Comprehensive Care for Patients in South Texas. Book online or call to make an appointment today. www.gastroconsa.com / 210.614.1234
The Blood Clot Risk Women Are Still Missing
What Women Need to Know About Deep Vein Thrombosis and Prevention
By John Hogg, MD, DABR, DABVLM, RPVI, RPhS, RVT, RVS Founder, Medical Vein Clinic
March is Deep Vein Thrombosis Awareness Month. Talking to our female patients, I’m reminded that much is still unknown about blood clots. Deep vein thrombosis, or DVT, is a type of blood clot that most often forms in the legs. It’s the most common and most dangerous type of blood clot we see in my practice.
Especially women in midlife: professionals, caregivers, leaders. Women managing careers, families, aging parents, travel schedules, and constant demands. Many of them are surprised to learn that hormone changes and hormone therapy can quietly increase their risk for blood clots.
Not dramatically. Not overnight. But enough that it deserves attention.
What I See in the Clinic
A visit often starts the same way.
A woman comes in for leg discomfort. Swelling by the end of the day. A dull ache she’s been ignoring. She tells me she assumed it was stress, age, or long hours on her feet.
Sometimes she mentions she recently started hormone replacement therapy. Sometimes she doesn’t think to mention it at all.
That’s usually when the conversation shifts.
How Estrogen Changes the Picture
Estrogen affects how blood clots. Whether it comes from birth control, pregnancy, or hormone therapy, it increases clotting proteins in the bloodstream and reduces the body’s natural ability to prevent clots.
For women taking oral estrogen and progestin, the risk of DVT increases about two to three times, particularly
during the first year. That risk rises further with age, smoking, excess weight, or a personal or family history of blood clots. Women are often not aware of this risk.
Not All Hormone Therapy Is the Same
One of the most important points I share with patients is this: how estrogen enters your body matters.
Oral estrogen pills carry a higher blood clot risk than transdermal options like patches, gels, or creams. When estrogen passes through the liver first, it appears to increase clotting factors more than estrogen absorbed through the skin.
Pellet hormone therapy is another option for women who want the benefits of hormone replacement without taking unnecessary risks. The pellets are small and placed just under the skin, where they release hormones slowly and steadily over time. Because they go straight into the bloodstream, they bypass the liver altogether, similar to creams and gels.
That steady release helps avoid the ups and downs some women experience with pills, and dosing can be tailored to what each woman actually needs. Many women also like the simplicity. Once the pellet is placed, there’s very little to manage day to day, and symptom relief can last for three months or so. The downside of pellets is that they may be difficult to remove and regulate the hormone level.
This does not mean hormone therapy is unsafe or that one should avoid it.
However, the conversation with your medical practitioners should be individualized. The hormone delivery method can make a meaningful difference.
Risk Factors That Add Up Quietly
By the time women reach their late 30s, 40s, and beyond, risk factors often stack up without much notice.
Long hours sitting in meetings. Standing for events. Frequent travel. Dehydration. Chronic stress. Weight changes. Poor sleep.
Add hormones to that mix, and blood clot risk can increase without dramatic warning signs.
If you’ve ever had a blood clot or if close family members have, that information matters. Certain inherited clotting conditions significantly change how medical professionals approach hormone therapy.
The Symptoms Women Tend to Dismiss
Women more often develop DVT in the lower leg rather than the thigh or pelvis. These clots can be subtle, where one leg is more affected.
Heaviness. Mild swelling. An ache that comes and goes.
Nothing that feels urgent.
So women wait. They push through. And sometimes that clot travels to the lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism. That can become life-threatening very quickly.
Even elite athletes are not immune. Serena Williams has spoken openly about her experience with blood clots, including a serious pulmonary embolism. Awareness matters because early recognition saves lives.
What I Tell My Patients
If you’re considering hormone therapy, talk openly with your doctor about your full medical history. Ask specifically about blood clots and DVT risk. If you have risk factors, discuss whether transdermal or other estrogen might be a safer option than oral pills.
If you’re planning surgery, tell your surgeon about any hormone therapy you take. In some cases, pausing estrogen before major procedures can reduce the risk of clots.
Move regularly. If you sit most of the day, stand and walk at least once an hour. Simple calf movements (pumping your calves up and down when seated) help
circulation more than most people realize. Stay hydrated. Dehydration thickens blood, and that matters.
And do not ignore one-sided leg swelling, pain, warmth, or redness, especially if it’s new or persistent.
Advanced, Specialized Screening Can Save Lives
Not all ultrasounds are equal. And not every facility is equipped to detect early or subtle clots.
At Medical Vein Clinic, we use advanced vascular ultrasound performed by physicians who focus exclusively on venous, arterial, and lymphatic disease. That specialization allows us to catch problems earlier, when treatment is most effective.
Each year, hundreds of thousands of Americans are diagnosed with DVT or pulmonary embolism, which can result in death. Many cases could be prevented with earlier awareness and intervention.
The Message I Want Women to Hear
When caught early, DVT is highly treatable. And in many cases, preventable.
Awareness changes outcomes. Knowing what to watch for. Asking better questions. Taking leg symptoms seriously instead of brushing them off.
Leg discomfort is not a normal cost of success or aging. It’s information.
March is Deep Vein Thrombosis Awareness Month. Let it be a reminder to review your risk factors, ask informed questions about any hormones you take, and pay attention to what your legs are telling you.
Healthy legs support everything else you do. And they deserve your attention.
Healthy Legs Take You Further™
Dr. John Hogg, MD, DABR, DABVLM, RPVI, RPhS, RVT, RVS, is a board-certified radiologist specializing in Vascular & Interventional Radiology and the CEO/ Founder of Medical Vein Clinic. With more than 30 years of experience, Dr. Hogg has established San Antonio’s leading vascular treatment clinic, helping thousands of patients since opening in 2017. To learn more, visithttps://www.medicalveinclinic.com.
Where Medicine Meets Lifestyle: A More Holistic Approach to Fertility Care
By Aimee Browne, MD, Reproductive Endocrinologist & Infertility Specialist at Aspire Fertility San Antonio
Dr. Aimee Browne is triple board-certified in Obstetrics and Gynecology, Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility (REI), and Lifestyle Medicine. A highly respected fertility specialist, she also brings a rare and deeply personal perspective to her work.
“I used in vitro fertilization (IVF) to conceive two of my three sons, so I understand both the science of fertility treatment and the lived experience of being a patient,” says Dr. Browne. “I know how overwhelming and out of control this journey can feel, even when you’re doing everything ‘right.’”
As both physician and patient, Dr. Browne came to recognize that fertility treatments and the everyday rhythms that shape hormonal and overall health are deeply intertwined, and that fertility care must account for both.
As a reproductive endocrinologist at Aspire Fertility San Antonio, Dr. Browne developed the Fertility Lifestyle approach - an integrated model that combines medical fertility treatments with evidence-informed lifestyle strategies. The goal is to support reproductive success, and help patients feel stronger, more supported, and better prepared throughout their fertility journey.
Here, Dr. Browne shares three foundational pillars that support both overall health and fertility health.
Make Sleep Hygiene a Priority
While many people recognize sleep as a cornerstone of wellness, its role in fertility is often overlooked.
“Sleep is a powerful regulator of hormones, metabolism, and stress response, all of which are deeply connected to reproductive health,” explains Dr. Browne. “For women trying to conceive, poor sleep quality has been linked to hormonal disruption and increased stress on the reproductive system.”
Sleep health matters for both men and women. While sleep alone does not determine fertility, it can significantly influence how well the body responds to treatment.
Dr. Browne encourages patients to focus on simple, sustainable habits like establishing a calming nighttime routine, turning off screens before bed, keeping the bedroom cool and dark, waking up at the same time each day, and getting natural light in the morning. Over time, these steps help regulate the body’s internal clock and support hormonal balance.
Integrate a Variety of Foods Into Your Diet
Fiber, protein, and yes, carbohydrates, are all essential components of a fertility-supportive diet.
“Fiber supports the microbiome, insulin sensitivity and plays a key role in balancing gut hormones and reducing inflammation - all of which improve fertility health,” says Dr. Browne. She recommends aiming for about 25 grams of fiber per day.
Carbohydrates, long misunderstood, also deserve reframing. “Carbs are essential to overall health, including fertility health, but we shouldn’t lump all carbs into one category,” she notes. “Some carbohydrates are packed with important nutrients like fiber and even protein, and those can actively support fertility.”
The Mediterranean diet is a prime example of this balanced approach, emphasizing whole foods rich in fiber, protein, and healthy carbohydrates.
Reduce Everyday Toxins That Can Disrupt Fertility
Hormones are highly responsive to the environment. The products we use, the foods we eat, and even the packaging those foods come in can either support or stress hormonal balance.
“Your hormones work like a delicate orchestra, and endocrinedisrupting chemicals can throw them off rhythm,” says Dr. Browne. “These toxins can mimic or block natural hormones, making it harder for the body to function optimally.”
Fortunately, small changes can make a meaningful difference. Dr. Browne recommends swapping plastic for glass or stainless steel, choosing fragrance-free products when possible, and focusing on whole, minimally processed foods.
Above all, Dr. Browne emphasizes that lifestyle care is meant to complement and not replace medical treatment. And by integrating the two, patients can receive a more well-rounded and holistic approach to care.
“Lifestyle support should never be used as a barrier to care,” she says.
“It’s meant to work alongside fertility treatment, not instead of it.”
To learn more about Aspire Fertility San Antonio, please visit aspirefertility. com/san-antonio-texas.
Why do more than half of Aspire Fertility San Antonio’s patients come from referrals? Because results – and experience – matters.
Our all-female powerhouse team of reproductive specialists work with each patient to personalize a customized treatment plan to help them identify and reach their family building goals, including:
• In vitro fertilization (IVF)
• Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)
• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
• Fertility Preservation (Egg Freezing)
• 3rd Party Reproduction (Egg and Sperm Donors/Surrogacy)
At Aspire Fertility San Antonio, patients aren’t just treated – they’re supported, empowered, and guided every step of the way. To learn more or get started on your fertility journey, visit aspirefertility.com/san-antonio-texas.
Tracy Board Audicles Hearing Services
By
Rudy Arispe | Photography by David Teran
SHOWCASE AUDICLES
About 33 percent of older adults, age 65, have some degree of hearing loss, and by age 85, 55 percent of individuals will experience some type of hearing loss. For children, there is between a 5 and 13 percent incidence of hearing loss, which slowly increases until age 65, and then compounds with age, said Tracy Board, Doctor of Audiology (Au.D.) at Audicles Hearing Services.
“As we age, with each decade, the chance of developing hearing loss becomes dramatically higher,” Dr. Board said.
On an encouraging note, however, Dr. Board stresses there’s help for anyone experiencing hearing loss, which can be diagnosed and treated with state-of-the-art hearing aids. Since 1944, Audicles Hearing Services has been delivering advanced hearing healthcare through a combination of industry-leading best practices and a team of Doctors of Audiology who continue to stay at the cutting edge of their profession.
Just as you make an appointment to have your eyes examined or teeth cleaned regularly, Dr. Board advises anyone who is experiencing any type of hearing loss to make an appointment to have the issue diagnosed.
“We are starting to see more people start to come see audiologists sooner in life,” she said. “Hearing loss can lead to cognitive decline. It used to take 10 years for someone to make an appointment from the time they noticed hearing loss; now it’s about seven years.
“Treating hearing loss helps neural networks function properly and keeps the language center of the brain stimulated,” Dr. Board continued. “We want to address hearing loss, so we don’t lose the ability to understand speech and also to make sure the brain continues to process sound properly. We don’t want to start losing cognition.”
For adults experiencing hearing loss, Dr. Board notes that it often affects their relationships. “They are working harder to communicate in the workplace, but at home they don’t make as much effort, and it can cause close relationships to deteriorate," she said.
While she uses several different hearing aids with her patients, there is one brand that she prefers above others. “I like ReSound because they were the first brand to use Auracast technology, which is now being employed in all hearing aids being manufactured today. It gives people access to sound in a way we’ve never done before,” she said. Auracast allows hearing aid users to stream
sound from electronic devices and public sound systems directly into their hearing aids.
This year, Dr. Board had an Auracast system installed at the Tobin Center. This system will allow hearing aid users with Auracast technology to stream the sound of shows directly into their hearing aids. For those who don’t have Auracast hearing aids, other listening devices will be available to allow them access to the sound system.
“One of the most frustrating things I see in adults is when they sit down at a theater and just take out a set of hearing aids that they likely paid several thousand dollars for, and put them in their pocket. They feel like the hearing aids alone don’t help them at all in theaters. This technology opens up a whole new world to Tobin Center patrons and allows them to maximize the technology they have paid for,” Dr. Board said.
Other services include comprehensive hearing assessments, advanced hearing aid technology, hearing aid repairs, and earwax removal.
Dr. Board originally had planned to become a speech and language pathologist until a professor at the University of Texas at Austin convinced her to pursue a career in audiology. “He really showed me how I could help people with hearing loss,” she said.
She joined the team at Audicles Hearing Services in 2004 and eventually purchased the practice, and says she continues to run the company like a family business. She’s also grateful that she followed her professor’s advice and finds her career in audiology to be quite rewarding.
“I get to meet all types of people every day, including babies up to my oldest client, who is 105 years old,” she said. “I feel like I accomplish something important every day at work.”
And more than that, she is helping individuals with hearing loss reconnect them with the world around them.
To schedule an appointment or for more information, visit www.audicles.com.
Miss Fiesta® 2026 JULIA ENRIQUEZ
Courtesy of Fiesta® San Antonio
Julia Enriquez is deeply honored to serve as Miss Fiesta 2026. Born and raised in San Antonio, Julia’s love for Fiesta was shaped by family tradition and community pride. She remembers sitting on squeaky metal bleachers with her cousins at the Battle of Flowers Parade, waiting in anticipation as the vibrant floats passed by. The Texas Cavaliers River Parade was a cherished tradition in her household, as her grandfather, Hector Morales, served for many years on the board of the San Antonio River Authority. His dedication to public service and stewardship of the city’s waterways left a lasting impression on her. Even after being diagnosed with a rare form of brain cancer, his strength and perseverance continue to inspire her daily.
Julia is also deeply influenced by her paternal grandparents, Rodolfo and Julia Enriquez. She is named after her grandmother, Julia, who passed away after battling dementia. That personal loss profoundly shaped the way she approaches her work today. Because she primarily serves elderly residents on San Antonio’s Westside, she often sees reflections of her grandmother in the clients she assists — a reminder to approach each person with patience, dignity, and compassion.
Julia attended St. John Bosco Catholic School, where she participated in the Private Schools Interscholastic Association (PSIA), competing in academic events that strengthened her love for scholarship and intellectual discipline at a young age. She later attended Great Hearts Monte Vista for middle and high school, graduating in 2022. While there, she was a member of the varsity golf team, helping lead her team to district championships in 2021 and 2022 and competing at the regional level both years. Through athletics, she developed resilience, focus, and teamwork — qualities that continue to guide her today.
She is currently a senior at The University of Texas at San Antonio and will graduate summa cum laude this May with a Bachelor of Science in Politics and Law from the UTSA Honors College, where she has earned multiple placements on the President’s List in recognition of sustained academic distinction. This fall, she will begin her legal studies at St. Mary’s University School of Law. She fondly remembers hearing the fireworks from Oyster Bake light up the night sky — a reminder that the traditions of San Antonio have always surrounded and shaped her.
The Westside of San Antonio is not just where Julia works — it is home. She spent twelve years dancing folklórico at the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center and trained in flamenco,
developing a deep connection to the city’s cultural heartbeat. Her quinceañera was celebrated at the historic Guadalupe Theatre, and she fondly remembers stopping at La Popular Bakery for trenzas before dance practice — small traditions that rooted her in the richness of San Antonio’s Mexican American heritage.
Today, Julia works two positions while completing her undergraduate degree. As a Legal Assistant and Housing Promotora at the Mexican American Unity Council (MAUC), she works primarily with residents of San Antonio’s Westside — the very community that raised her. She assists families in protecting their homes by drafting Affidavits of Heirship and Transfer on Death Deeds, helping prevent generational property loss. She also serves as a Research Assistant in UTSA’s College of Architecture, contributing to projects focused on affordable housing and sustainable community development.
Faith is central to Julia’s life. At Divine Providence Catholic Church, she currently teaches Second Year Communion, preparing children to receive the Sacrament of the Eucharist. She has also helped organize youth Bible camps and served as a counselor for kindergarten-aged children.
Julia is the daughter of Roger and Clarissa Enriquez, both educators in academia, who instilled in her from an early age the importance of service, discipline, and civic leadership. She is the oldest of five children, including her older half-brother Roger Jr., and her siblings Rudy, Teresa, Paloma, and Olivia. Julia volunteers during major holidays with Operation Turkey and serves at the St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry, helping provide meals to families in need.
As Miss Fiesta 2026, Julia proudly serves as an ambassador for the San Antonio Fiesta Commission and its more than 100 nonprofit member organizations. She is passionate about highlighting that Fiesta is more than a celebration — it is a tradition of giving back, raising vital funds that directly support local nonprofits and strengthen the community she loves.
Looking ahead, Julia hopes to one day open her own nonprofit legal organization dedicated to serving San Antonio families, ensuring that access to justice and generational stability are not privileges, but rights available to all.
Julia looks forward to representing Fiesta with gratitude, authenticity, and deep love for the city that raised her.
FIESTA® 2026! APRIL
16-26
Thank you to the many volunteers who make this city-wide party possible!
Meet your Fiesta® San Antonio Elected Commissioners!
The Fiesta® San Antonio Commission is guided by elected commissioners who represent the community and help shape the future of our citywide celebration. Each year, commissioners are chosen by members of the Fiesta® San Antonio Commission to serve as stewards of Fiesta’s mission—supporting local ≠≠nonprofits, preserving cultural traditions, and ensuring that more than 100 official events come together in a safe and meaningful way.
Meet Your Fiesta® Executive Committee
The Fiesta® Executive Committee provides the leadership and guidance that keep our city’s biggest celebration thriving. Each year, dedicated community leaders volunteer their time and expertise to oversee the planning, operations, and traditions of Fiesta. From coordinating more than 100 official events to supporting participating nonprofit organizations, the Executive Committee ensures Fiesta® remains a vibrant, safe, and memorable experience for everyone.
Seated (L to R)
• Irma Duran de Rodriguez
• Dina Boley
• Caroline Cain
• Laura Read
• Cheryl Palmer
• Trish DeBerry
• Sandy Liwang
• JoAnn Boone
Standing (L to R)
• Lillian Villanueva
• Richard Delgado Jr.
• Terrin Fuhrmann
• Jeffrey Weissman
• Freddie Cervera III
• Michael Flores
Not Pictured
• Debbie Gonzaba
• Abby Kurth
• Bridgette Oliva
• Janet Putman
• Melissa Ramirez
• Rochelle Staten
• Fernando Villarreal
Seated (L to R)
• Sid Gutierrez – Presidential Appointee
• Dr. Jose Ruiz – Secretary
• Allison Reyes Boese – 2nd Vice President
• Jim Mery – President-Elect
• Ferne Burney – President
• Barton Simpson – Senior Vice President
• Kelly Kennedy – 1st Vice President
• Steve Rosenauer – Executive Director
Standing (L to R)
• Melanie Cawthon – Board of Director
• Lewis Vetter – Board of Director
• Thomas Aguillon – Board of Director
• Matt Koehler – Board of Director
• Kathleen LeFlore – Board of Director
• Gardner Peavy – Board of Director
• Alfred Horn – Board of Director
Not pictured:
• John Evans – Treasurer
• David Christian – Immediate Past President
• Jennifer Barbaro – Board of Director
• Jasper "Mookie" Blake – Board of Director
• Julie Coffey – Board of Director
• Erwin De Luna – Board of Director
• Lisa Lynde – Board of Director
• John McFadden – Board of Director
• Greg Seay – Board of Director
• Georgina Schmahl – Board of Director
An Arciniega District Love Story
Two Luxury Hotels. One Seamless Celebration
When Leslie Hidalgo and Eric Ryberg began planning their wedding, they never imagined their perfect day would unfold across two iconic San Antonio properties, but that’s exactly what made it unforgettable.
After unexpected news that their original venue was no longer available, the couple found themselves walking through the courtyard of Kimpton Santo San Antonio. “I immediately felt calm,” Leslie shared. “It felt like it was meant to be.” What they discovered wasn’t just a venue, it was an entire district experience.
Leslie began her wedding morning in the Arciniega Suite at The Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa, a serene garden-style escape rooted in history. Surrounded by natural light, textured stone, and refined architectural details, the suite provided the perfect backdrop for an intimate, editorial-style getting-ready moment. The Plaza’s tranquil setting created a grounding pause before the celebration, a moment of quiet elegance before the energy of the evening.
With hair styled by @blowdryandstyles and makeup by @ezmiabascom, Leslie’s bridal look reflected timeless femininity. Her gown from @astonbridal complemented the romantic aesthetic of the historic property, blending classic elegance with modern refinement.
Just steps away, the celebration unfolded at Kimpton Santo San Antonio – Riverwalk, where contemporary luxury meets bold, curated design. Guests transitioned seamlessly from ceremony to reception, experiencing the dynamic energy that defines the Arciniega District.
One of the couple’s favorite memories? “Our first look. It felt like falling in love all over again.”
Cuisine played a meaningful role in the evening, with chef-curated Puerto Rican dishes honoring Leslie’s heritage, a deeply personal touch that brought culture, family, and flavor to the forefront of the celebration. What made this wedding truly unique wasn’t just the design or the vendors; it was the ability to curate a full-circle experience across two luxury hotels within one walkable district. Historic elegance at The Plaza. Modern sophistication at Kimpton Santo. Seamless guest accommodations across both properties. One cohesive hospitality team.
This is the future of destination weddings in downtown San Antonio: immersive, elevated, and entirely customizable. For Leslie and Eric, the Arciniega District didn’t just host their wedding. It carried their love story from beginning to end.
(210) 229-1000 | 555 S Alamo Street
(210) 222-1000 | 431 S Alamo Street
Photographer: Crystal Ramos (@shotwithcrystal) | Reception Photographer: Jessica Just (@just.a.jessica) (grad school friend of the groom) | Videographer: Kylie Rodriguez (@mediaby.ky) | Hair: Brittany Hooker (@bkohair) Ezmia Bascom (@ezmiabascom) | Makeup: Ezmia Bascom (@ezmiabascom) (my bestie/maid of honor)
Planner: No planner, I did it myself, crazy I know! | Florist: Olive Thyme (@olivethyme)
Cake: BIRD Bakery (@birdbakery) | DJ: DJ Cosmicaa (@cosmicaa.dj) | Decor: Picnic at Tiffany's (@picnicattiffanysllc) Bridal Salon: ASTON Bridal (@astonbridal) | Invitations: With Love Studio (@withlove.studio)
Johnson City: Your Hill Country Escape
With life’s relentless pace, sometimes you just want to step back, take a breath, and pause.
That’s what can happen with just a short drive to Johnson City.
It takes an hour to get to Johnson City, but you’ll feel like you’re a world away. Johnson City is everything you love about small-town America, from how easy it is to walk the downtown area to how much natural beauty you can enjoy between spring wildflowers, scenic vistas, and velvety skies glowing with stars you just can’t see in the city.
Johnson City is the perfect place for a girls’ getaway. You can explore charming local shops (Camp Bubba Antiques and Curiosities is a favorite for unearthing treasures!). You can schedule visits to local wine tasting rooms, including Pebble Rock Cellars, Vinovium, and Farmhouse Vineyards Marketplace, for an interactive experience with their wine experts or for a fun, casual place for a group. Looking for a bite to eat? Enjoy a casual, delicious bite from Herencia Cuisine, a food truck led by Michelin-recognized Chef Christophe, or enjoy hot dogs and inventive cocktails at Nice N Easy.
A couple’s weekend might include internationally awarded beers from Pecan Street Brewing and hiking through Pedernales Falls State Park, while a family weekend in Johnson City would be a perfect time to visit the Sauer-Beckman Living History Farm or to engage in some hands-on, minds-on learning at the Science Mill.
Plan to spend the night snuggled up next to a backyard firepit and wind down with a glass of local wine. Even staying locally has character, with charming vacation rentals spread around the area, including several within walking distance of downtown.
A weekend here can include a full agenda, or it can be a time to relax, slow down, and just enjoy the beauty of nature. Whatever your soul craves, you can find it –and yourself – in Johnson City.
Final Thoughts...
"Spring Waters"
by Sylvia Benitez
40" x 50" | Oil on canvas
Sylvia Benitez is a nationally awarded artist; the recipient of many awards from numerous granting foundations, including an Adolph and Esther Gottlieb Foundation Individual Support Grant, two Pollock-Krasner Foundation Awards, an AICA Award for best exterior sculpture installation, two National Endowment for the Arts Visiting Artist Fellowships, a Puffin Foundation Award, an Empire State Craft Award, two Sculpture Space Residencies, and two MacDowell Colony Fellowships. Benitez has also received Yaddo, VCCA, Ucross Foundation, Vermont Studio Center, and Altos de Chavon, Dominican Republic artist residencies.
She is the founder and president of The Gentileschi Aegis Gallery Association - GAGA- an eleven-year-old 501(c)(3) nonprofit, serving women artists of South Texas. For this, Benitez has curated, installed, and marketed over 30 thematic exhibitions, many of which are all-member shows.
Image and artist’s bio courtesy of Hunt Gallery 4225 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212 | Huntgallery.net
