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Welcome, friends!
As much as I love the festivities and sense of relaxation of summer, I find myself looking forward to a new season with football, fall traditions, and the excitement that sports bring to our community. With that in mind, it’s the perfect time to shine the spotlight on this issue’s cover woman, Mary Ullmann Japhet. A driving force behind many of San Antonio’s most celebrated sporting events, Mary has spent decades bringing people together through sports. Now, as the first woman to serve as chair of San Antonio Sports, she continues to lead with vision, passion, and an unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact on our city.
We’re also honored to introduce three remarkable female judges who are among the four judges leading the Pearls and Eagles Courts. These specialized courts provide invaluable support to young people ages 14 to 18 in foster care, helping them build brighter futures as they transition into adulthood. You’ll also meet some of San Antonio’s outstanding attorneys and financial professionals who are making a difference in our community every day.
With a new school year just around the corner, we’ve included a guide to many of the outstanding private schools in and around San Antonio to help families explore educational opportunities and find the best fit for their children. In our Health section, you’ll meet Drs. Christina Gutierrez and Emily Bowen, who share their passion for caring for women through every stage of life while emphasizing the importance of regular OB/GYN care. Dr. John Hogg also takes an in-depth look at spider and varicose veins, explaining their causes and the latest treatment options available. After all, in San Antonio, shorts season never really ends!
Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, traveling this summer, or settling back into your routine, I hope the stories in these pages leave you feeling inspired, informed, and connected to the incredible women and organizations shaping our city. Thank you, as always, for allowing San Antonio Woman to be part of your life.
Warmly,
Cathleen
Cathleen Lane Publisher and Editor-in-Chief
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Location: The Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa | Photography by:
Location: The Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa | Photography by: Heba Gabriella
Mary Ullmann Japhet has spent a lifetime proving that the greatest victories happen far beyond the scoreboard.
Sports have always been part of Mary Ullmann Japhet's life, but not for the reasons most people might expect.
Ask the founder and owner of Japhet Media and the first woman to serve as chair of San Antonio Sports what first drew her to athletics, and she doesn’t begin with competition or championships. She talks about people.
"I always loved Olympic sport," she explains. "As a kid, I watched as much as I could on TV. I loved the athlete stories — the kid from Texas who learned to fence, stories like that. I realized it wasn't just about the sport. It was the people behind it. 'The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat' — that was always the most interesting part, and it still is for me today."
That perspective has quietly shaped every chapter of her career.
Whether she was chasing stories as a television journalist, helping build one of the nation's most respected sports commissions, launching her own communications firm, or working with some of San Antonio’s most influential nonprofit organizations, the common thread has never been athletics, media or public relations. It has been impact.
“I measure success by impact. What difference was made? If it’s with my clients, did it meet the goals we set out to meet? If it’s with the nonprofits I work with, are we making the impact we intend to make? If not, what do we do? How do we improve the impact to better people’s lives? That’s it at the end of the day.”
That philosophy now guides her as chair of San Antonio Sports, a role that makes history in more ways than one. In the organization’s 42-year history, no woman had ever served as board chair.
“When Jenny [Carnes, President and CEO of San Antonio Sports] approached me and said, ‘You know you’d be the first female chair,’ of course I knew that, but I hadn’t really thought of it,” Japhet says. “For an organization that had, at its senior leadership level, been largely run by women, we’d never had a female board chair.”
San Antonio Sports is best known for attracting marquee events such as NCAA Final Fours and
national championships that have generated more than $1.6 billion in economic impact for the region. But that’s only part of the story.
“People sometimes think we’re just about bringing big events to town,” she says. “Those events are incredibly important because they create economic impact and they shine a spotlight on San Antonio. But what makes San Antonio Sports unique is everything that happens after the crowds go home.”
Unlike many sports commissions across the country, San Antonio Sports invests in free community programs designed to improve health, encourage physical activity, and create opportunities for children regardless of their circumstances. “That’s what makes me proud,” she says. “We're changing lives every single day.”
She lights up describing the organization’s free afterschool sports programs that introduce children – many
from underserved neighborhoods – to soccer, football and other activities they might otherwise never experience. She talks about San Antonio Activate, which offers free fitness classes across the city, and the San Antonio Marathon, now locally owned and operated, so its proceeds stay in the community. “All of those programs lift our community in different ways.”
That community-first mission is one she knows intimately because she helped build it when what was supposed to be a temporary assignment changed the course of her life.
After working in television in Los Angeles, Japhet returned to San Antonio in the early 1990s to oversee advertising and special events for the U.S. Olympic Festival.
“I came back for what I thought was a short-term gig,” she recalls with a laugh. “My epitaph will say, ‘She could get in, but she couldn’t get out.’”
That temporary assignment transformed into an 18-year career with San Antonio Sports, first as a board member and later leading the organization’s communications and marketing efforts before eventually launching Japhet Media in 2019.
Throughout her career, she had been drawn to organizations with a mission larger than themselves. Whether helping a nonprofit tell its story, guiding a business through a communications challenge, or promoting one of the country's premier sports commissions, she found herself asking the same questions: What difference does this organization make? Why should people care? How can its story inspire others?
“I’ve always loved connecting people and ideas. I love helping organizations figure out who they are, what they stand for, and how to communicate that.
“I’ve been fortunate to work with clients who are making a difference,” she says. “They're driven by purpose. They're driven by impact. That’s the kind of work I love because you know you're helping move something meaningful forward.”
Purpose has become the filter through which she views every opportunity. It’s why she continues to volunteer, serving on boards including the Children’s Bereavement Center of South Texas and the Great Springs Project. And it explains why she still finds herself saying yes.
“I enjoy it. I’ve never been one to sit on the sidelines and wait for something to happen.”
That instinct came naturally.
“My dad was the go-to guy in our little community. He was always doing something for other people.”
Growing up in Runge, on a ranch in South Texas, she watched her father quietly serve wherever he was needed, while her mother,
a teacher originally from Connecticut, nurtured her love of reading, writing, and exploring the world beyond their small town.
“I lucked out on the parent lottery,” Japhet says. “My career path has largely been thanks to my mom’s influence. My sense of community, impact and purpose is largely my dad.”
Those lessons still guide her decades after losing her father unexpectedly at just 58 years old.
“I think I got a lot of that from my dad,” she says of her commitment to community service. “I find causes that align with the things that interest me and where I feel I can make a difference.”
The ability to see the bigger picture has become one of her defining strengths. Clients turn to her for strategic counsel, nonprofit boards seek her perspective, and colleagues describe her as someone who instinctively looks beyond the immediate challenge to the long-term opportunity.
Yet for Mary, leadership has never been about being the loudest voice in the room.
It's about listening first. Journalism taught her that.
Covering communities, asking questions, and meeting people from every walk of life reinforced something she had discovered years earlier while watching Olympic broadcasts: every person has a story worth hearing.
Those experiences continue to shape the way she approaches leadership today.
"You learn so much just by listening," she says. "Everybody has something to teach you."
That curiosity has also fueled her commitment to mentoring others. Whether she's advising a young communications professional, encouraging an entrepreneur, or helping guide a nonprofit leader, she sees mentorship as another way to invest in her community.
"I've benefited from so many people who were willing to spend time with me," she says. "If I can do that for someone else, why wouldn't I?"
She believes every career is built through relationships— not transactions, but genuine connections rooted in trust, generosity and a willingness to help others succeed.
That philosophy extends well beyond business.
Outside the office, she finds balance in the outdoors, whether hiking, biking, traveling, or simply spending time in nature.
"Nature has always been my best medicine," she says. It is where she slows down, reflects, and recharges before returning to work that often places her at the center of complex projects, high-profile events and community initiatives.
Even after decades of professional success, she isn't motivated by recognition.
Ask what she hopes her legacy will be, and her answer doesn't center on becoming the first woman to chair San Antonio Sports, building a successful communications firm or receiving accolades.
Instead, she returns to the same idea that has quietly threaded its way through every stage of her life. Impact.
"I hope people would say I made a difference," she says. "That I helped move things forward. That I helped make my community a little bit better."
Whether leading a nonprofit board, advising a client through a pivotal moment or championing opportunities
for children across San Antonio, Mary Ullmann Japhet continues to look beyond the headline to what matters most.
The event may bring people together. The story is what stays with them.
And if her own story is any indication, the most meaningful victories are rarely measured by trophies or titles. They are measured by the lives touched, the communities strengthened, and the opportunities created for those who follow.
For Mary Ullmann Japhet, that's always been the story worth telling.
By
Long before Cristina Ziegler-McCoig understood the power design could have to shape how people experience the world around them, she was practicing it.
Growing up in Del Rio, Texas, Ziegler was the child who constantly rearranged her bedroom and occasionally asked friends if she could rearrange theirs, too. At the time, she didn’t see it as a future profession. It was something she loved.
“I think all along I knew interior design was what I wanted to do,” Ziegler said. “It was always there, but I never listened to it.” That insight and intuition would eventually lead her to discover that finding her passion was anything but linear.
After moving to San Antonio in 2015 to attend UTSA, Ziegler explored several interests before finding her calling. She began in communications, transitioned to business marketing, then political science, and finally landed in interior design, which was inspired by her love of people, service, and community.
That connection began years earlier. As a shy teenager, Ziegler’s mother encouraged her to participate in pageants. While reluctant at first, she now credits the experience with helping her build confidence through public speaking, interviews, and volunteer work. “It really shaped me as a person,” Ziegler said.
Eventually, Ziegler realized the career she had been searching for combined two passions that had always been part of her life. “For me, it was design and community,” she said. “And when those two married together, that clicked for me.”
Today, Ziegler brings that perspective to her role as an associate at Gensler, a global architecture, design, and planning firm with 57 offices and more than 6,000 employees worldwide. Her qualifications include certifications from the National Council of Interior Design Qualifications, and she is a Registered Interior Designer.
Working across industries including aviation, healthcare, education, workplace, retail, and cultural spaces, Gensler is known for its research-driven approach to creating environments that better serve the people who use them. For Ziegler, being part of Gensler’s San Antonio office offers the best of both worlds, including the perspective of a global firm combined with the connection and impact of a local team.
While many people associate interior design with colors, furniture, or finishes, Ziegler sees it as something much deeper. Design is about the human experience. “Everybody
feels things when they walk into an environment, even if they don’t realize it,” she said. Her work focuses primarily on workplace design, considering how people interact, collaborate, move through a building, and how the environment supports their daily lives.
Currently, Ziegler is part of the team working on the relocation of the National Association of Latino Community Asset Builders headquarters in San Antonio, a project reflecting her passion for creating meaningful spaces in the community she calls home.
“I’ve become so connected to it,” Ziegler said of San Antonio. “Where do I see San Antonio going? What do I want it to become? How can I add to that?”
She believes the city’s greatest strength is its ability to evolve while preserving the history and culture that make it unique.
Looking ahead, Ziegler is focused on continuing to create spaces that make a positive difference.
“I just try and always make sure that I’m happy with what I’m doing,” she said. “The goal is to make others happy with the spaces they’re in that I design.”
For others searching for their own path, Ziegler encourages them to trust themselves, seek mentors, and remember they belong in every opportunity they pursue.
“Be confident in all the rooms that you walk into,” she said.
The young girl who once learned how to find her confidence walking into rooms now spends her career designing rooms where others can feel inspired, connected, and at home.
By
Born and raised in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, Sam Henselijn grew up surrounded by entrepreneurship, determination, and a strong work ethic.
His father and grandfather came from a successful line of business owners, while his mother’s upbringing taught him the value of perseverance and appreciation. Together, those influences shaped Henselijn’s willingness to work hard, take risks, and create his own opportunities.
Before becoming an entrepreneur, Henselijn’s first passion was tennis. A competitive player who traveled internationally, he moved to the United States at just 17 years old after being recruited to play tennis for Texas A&M University in Corpus Christi. The challenge was that he came to this country alone and did not speak one word of English.
Adjusting to a new country, culture, and language was difficult. Henselijn credits much of his early success to the support provided to student athletes, including tutors and study sessions that helped him navigate college while learning English.
For years, he translated everything from Dutch to English in his mind. Then one day, something shifted. “It probably took four years until I realized my English was actually getting better,” he says. “All of a sudden, I was dreaming in English. I was counting in English. I didn't have to translate in my head."
After earning his MBA, Henselijn knew he wanted to become an entrepreneur and thought joining the family business might be the natural next step. His father disagreed. “He told me, ‘You need to mess up somebody else’s business before I put a penny into you.’”
Henselijn followed that advice and went to work in the oil fields, starting in the field and eventually moving into management. Over five years, he helped build a company introducing new technology that would become an industry standard.
But he still wanted to build something of his own. His opportunity came from an unexpected place: nuts and candy. At first, the transition was difficult to imagine. “I didn’t want to go from negotiating 8-figure deals to selling a bag of nuts on the corner,” he says. Even so, he recognized the potential, and in 2016, L’Orenta Nuts was born.
Success did not happen overnight. Henselijn started small by securing licenses, meeting requirements, and
introducing customers to his products one bag at a time. “I started out of my one-bedroom apartment packing sampling bags and would take them everywhere to get the word out,” says Henselijn.
One customer followed another, eventually landing bigger and bigger orders. Larger opportunities required more investment, infrastructure, and earning the highest levels of food safety certification. Eventually, those efforts opened the door to major retailers.
Today, L’Orenta has grown from an apartment startup into one of the largest private-label candy and nut co-packers in the country, expanding through four warehouses in 10 years. “Our fastest machines can pack about 5,000 bags of nuts and candy in an hour,” says Henselijn.
Despite the growth, Henselijn does not believe success has a finish line. “I don’t ever think I’d say, I made it. I think the moment you settle, or you feel accomplished, that’s when things go wrong. So I’ve learned that you always have to be uncomfortable to grow,” he says.
His advice to others is simple. “Don’t ever give up. Believe in yourself. And if you have a legit plan and if you truly believe in yourself, don’t listen to what others are saying.”
Looking back, he credits success not only to persistence but also to people. “Relationships definitely matter,” he says. “I think that is the key to success.”
By Violet Blair, TFII Intern Designer: Johnathan Hayden | Photographer: Gabriella Perez
Texas Fashion Week has always been about more than the runway. This spring, it became a reflection of what happens when designers, students, local businesses, sponsors, and volunteers all begin pulling in the same direction. For one week, fashion became impossible to ignore in
downtown San Antonio. Garment bags rolled through hotel lobbies before sunrise. Designers made last-minute adjustments backstage. Volunteers moved effortlessly between venues, photographers searched for the perfect frame, and conversations about creativity continued long after the lights went down.
Hosted by the Texas Fashion Industry Initiative, Texas Fashion Week Spring 2026 felt less like a series of events and more like a citywide celebration of the people shaping the future of fashion in Texas.
The week began high above downtown at Aleteo inside The Monarch Hotel, where the TXFW Kick-Off welcomed the mayor of San Antonio, Councilman Jalen McKee-Rodriguez, Councilwoman Phyllis Viagran, Bexar County Commissioner Tommy Calvert Jr., designers, business leaders, creatives, sponsors, and community partners for an evening that felt both elegant and optimistic. Against the San Antonio skyline, conversations flowed as naturally as introductions, bringing together familiar faces and first-time attendees who all shared the same belief: Texas fashion deserves a bigger stage. The presence of Mayor Jones reinforced that sentiment, highlighting the growing relationship between fashion, business, and the city itself.
Rather than treating education as something separate from fashion, Texas Fashion Week wove it into the heart of the experience. The Creative Circle gave working professionals an opportunity to speak candidly about building careers in creative industries, offering students and emerging professionals an honest look at the realities behind the work.
During Women Who Serve: Leadership Beyond Uniform, presented in partnership with The Pink Berets, women veterans shared powerful stories of leadership, resilience, and reinvention after military service.
These conversations weren’t simply scheduled between runway shows–they became part of the foundation that made the week meaningful.
The same commitment to investing in the future was evident during Education Activation, where students from across San Antonio presented sustainable garments they had spent months developing. Watching young designers confidently share their work was a reminder that the future of Texas fashion isn’t something waiting on the horizon– it’s already taking shape inside the classrooms across the city. The scholarship awards presented at the conclusion of the showcase celebrated not only outstanding designs but also the next generation of creative talent.
By the time the week arrived at Frost Tower, the energy had shifted. Conversations quieted, the lights dimmed, and attention turned entirely to the runway.
Each collection offered a distinct perspective on what Texas fashion can be. Among the weekend’s most anticipated presentations were Johnathan Hayden, as well as CDFArecognized designer Jesus Del Real, whose collection blurred the lines between fashion and art. Models appeared with striking metallic gold and silver body paint that became an extension of the garments themselves, paired with fluid draping, sculptural styling, and a restrained color palette that emphasized movement, texture, and form. The result felt less like a traditional runway presentation and more like a living work of art.
Across the weekend, designers including Johnathan Hayden, Jennifer Flores Reyes, Negris Lebrum, Becky Hollands, and many others demonstrated the remarkable diversity of talent emerging throughout the state. From polished tailoring and romantic eveningwear to contemporary ready-to-wear and experimental silhouettes, each collection contributed something uniquely different. Together, they painted a broader picture of an industry that continues to evolve without losing its individuality.
The experience extended far beyond the runway itself. Before every show, guests explored the TXFW Marketplace, where local artists and small businesses transformed the venue into a vibrant community gathering space. Support from sponsors, including Lone Star Beer, helped create an experience that reflected the collaborative
spirit of the week and demonstrated how local businesses continue to invest in the growth of Texas fashion.
As the final runway lights faded and the last garment disappeared backstage, what remained wasn’t simply the memory of beautiful collections. It was the feeling that something meaningful is taking shape in Texas. Through education, collaboration, local partnerships, and unwavering commitment to supporting both established and emerging talent, Texas Fashion Week Spring 2026 demonstrated that the Texas fashion industry is no longer waiting for recognition. It is building its own future–one season, one designer, and one community at a time.
Winners of Education Activation (sustainability competition)
High School Winner: Erin Yoon (Round Rock High School)
College Winner: Camila Novoa (University of Incarnate Word)
Photographer: Adam Robledo
By Lainey Berkus | Photography by David Teran
There is something I have always loved about a woman’s handbag. Not the brand nor the size. What I admire most is what the bag represents.
I’m always drawn to bags that tell a story about the woman who carries them —objects that reflect who she is, what she values, and how she shows up in the world. And, if there were ever a woman whose bag tells a story of purpose, leadership and heart, it is this remarkable leading lady. Read on.
When you think of Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas, you might picture cookie booths, badges, sashes and girls learning how to lead.
When you think of a Major General in the United States Marine Corps, you imagine discipline, command, resilience and responsibility on a global scale.
Now imagine one woman who embodies both. Meet Angie Salinas.
Angie has served as CEO of Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas since 2015. She is also the only Latina woman to have risen to the rank of Major General in the US Marine Corps, where she served for 39 years. This woman is truly the embodiment of leadership rooted in service.
Angie understands something deeply: whether you are leading Marines or mentoring a room full of young girls, the mission is the same — prepare people to be strong, capable, ethical, and brave while building courage, confidence, and character. She tells me that leadership in girls is not developed through instruction alone. It is cultivated through trust, encouragement and example. THAT is what Angie carries in her tote and why she is the perfect woman for a Bag story.
Angie’s ready-to-go bag is more than a sturdy white canvas tote with a bright green trefoil on its front pocket; it’s a symbol of Girl Scout spirit and pride. She calls it her “survival bag,” and it goes everywhere with her — into meetings, classrooms, boardrooms, and everyday conversations. Inside that bag lives the heart of Girl Scouts. Simply put, it’s a bag filled with purpose, preparation, patriotism, and possibility. Some might call this tote a portable philosophy.
Let’s take a look inside this momentous bag.
“My bag is about preparation. It holds the courage to speak up and the confidence to step forward and to believe in yourself. It carries symbols of integrity, kindness, and responsibility. I carry it every day, not for emergencies but for moments that matter. My mission is to share the story of Girl Scouts with everyone I meet, no matter their age or gender. I am always ready to talk about the power of girls. Always ready to encourage confidence. Always ready to remind others that young women are capable of more than they imagine. Every item in my bag opens a conversation about leadership, resilience, and becoming the kind of woman who is ready for anything”.
What are the items in your bag that represent responsibility and readiness?
“You won’t find clutter inside; what you will find is intention. Everything in my tote mirrors what Girl Scouts is all about. Inside are brochures, pins, medals, special badges, scarves, sashes, brand-proud items like scarves and water bottles. Each item represents a stage of learning, growth, and leadership for girls 5 through 19, from Daisies to Brownies, Juniors, Cadettes, Seniors, and Ambassadors. The skills learned deepen as the girls grow. By the time a Girl Scout reaches her final years, she carries far more than patches and memories. She has learned how to lead with confidence, think critically, serve others meaningfully, take initiative and turn ideas into actions. She leaves Girl Scouts with empathy, courage and purpose as she prepares for college or career.
“I love sharing the story behind my custom CEO patch. It’s one that each Girl Scout CEO creates for herself. My patch is not about rank or title. It is about how you can be anything, how you can lead, how you serve, and how you lift others along the way. This path represents a rare blend of strength and compassion, discipline and heart, courage and care and patriotism, the hallmarks of true leadership. At its center is character, doing the right thing when no one is watching, confidence in your voice and your ability to lead, courage in moments that require strength. The patch has the words “reach for the stars” with rising stars on a backdrop of the American Flag . Girl Scouts earn their patch, and when asked what “reach for the stars” means to them, they respond with no right or wrong answer. I ask them about the American Flag in the background and tell them every Girl Scout wears the American Flag on their sash and vest regardless of if they are a Daisy or an Ambassador, making every one of them a sister. I remind them we are a patriotic organization, and every troop meeting and Girl Scout event starts with the Pledge of Allegiance and Girl Scout oath. I then tell them I wore the “flag,” wearing the cloth of the nation as a U.S. Marine for 39 years. I then tell them the patch has their Council and my name on it… and the secret to the patch… the tiny two stars on each side… depicting my rank. Major General. Hence, “reach for the stars” reflects the stars I wore on my shoulders. Dreaming big, imagining the infinite possibilities of what they can become because becoming a general wasn’t a possibility for me when I joined the Marines.
Why does your bag matter?
“Long after the meetings end, the badges are sewn on, and the uniform is folded away, what remains is what the bag gave that young woman - courage, confidence, character. Is there anything better to keep inside a bag?”
Angie restocks her tote daily because she shares its contents with everyone she meets — like me. She carries it not as a CEO, but as a mentor, role model, and woman who understands that leadership begins with what you choose to carry on your life journey. Since meeting Angie, I located my Brownie pin and wear it on the lapel of my favorite blazer. I also enjoy wearing my new blue and green Girl Scout scarf that Angie gifted me during our interview. Thank you, Angie, for your service and reminding us that leadership is carried, worn, lived, and shared. Because of you, women stand taller, and we will pass on all the lessons you have shared with so many.
Angie’s Tips:
1. Buy Girl Scout cookies; all proceeds support Girl Scouts of South Texas.
2. Visit the Girl Scouts gift shop — you too can find a choice of survival bags with the proud trefoil symbol.
3. Calling all Girl Scout ALUMs to join Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas.
By Bill Murphy, MD, Medical Director, Turquoise Springs Medical Spa
We have all heard the saying, “What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger”. The saying is a way to mitigate a bad event and somehow make it seem more palatable. While it may sound cliché, there may be a grain of truth in it. Dr. Stephanie Rogers, a professor at the University of California, San Francisco, has noticed one thing healthy older adults living into their 80’s and 90’s have avoided as much as possible over the course of their lives. The condition these healthier older adults have avoided is comfort. According to Dr. Rogers, the healthiest people she encounters have continued to apply stress to their bodies, both physically and cognitively, year after year, decade after decade. Physically, mentally, and emotionally, they have continued to push past their comfort zones.
There is a concept called Hormesis, which is our body’s adaptive response to mild stress. We want to push our bodies hard enough to adapt, but not so hard that we cause harm. We wish to build our biological capacity and increase our resilience by constantly challenging our body and brain to overcome hurdles. Think of it as training for life. When we regularly expose ourselves to healthy stressors, our bodies and brains learn to adapt, recover, and perform better.
The term hormesis is from the Greek word “hormo,” which means to excite or stimulate. Mild stressors stimulate cellular functions in our body to enhance our health, vitality, and increase our resistance to disease or injury. The key lies in the dose and frequency of exposure. In the physical realm, examples are exercise, intermittent fasting, heat or cold exposure, and certain plant compounds that stimulate our body to improve immune system capacity. Physical activity or exercise leads to increased muscle strength, improved heart capacity, and enhanced metabolic function in appropriate doses.
The key is finding the right dose. Too little stress and the body has no reason to adapt. Too much stress can cause injury or harm. The sweet spot lies somewhere in between. It is important to vary your exercise regimen. If you primarily lift weights, add walking or rowing to
your regimen. If you primarily run, add yoga or Pilates with stretching to build core strength and balance.
Activities like sauna use (heat stress) or cold showers (cold stress) can activate protective proteins or peptides and improve vascular circulation. Intermittent fasting can induce mild stress, which triggers cellular repair, metabolic reset, and improves brain function.
Phytonutrients, which are compounds in plants like resveratrol in grapes and sulforaphane in broccoli, can induce hormetic effects that promote detoxification and anti-inflammation.
Small doses of cognitive stress are just as important as physical challenges. My opinion is that retirement is an artificial construct to help those who had depleted their bodies in coal mines, on farms, in steel mills, and doing construction work in the first half of the last century. The average life span in the 1930’s was 69 years old. We are living a decade or two longer now, and to remain healthy, we need to have a reason to get out of bed every day. Time stress is not a bad thing in small doses. It is healthy to be committed to being somewhere where you are expected, on time, and prepared to perform. The event or task should be something you like or love doing. It doesn’t have to be a job or your career occupation. It can be volunteering for Habitat for Humanity, attending an art class, mentoring, or even serving as a greeter at Walmart. Other ways of cognitive stimulation might be learning a new language or a new craft, joining a book club, or attending a Bible study. Nothing stimulates the mind like being around people different than yourself or who have opinions different from your own. The important thing to remember is that a healthy brain is not one that is completely without stress or challenge. Individuals who engage in hormetic practices are likely to be better able to cope with physical and psychological stress, leading to improved mental health and well-being.
Most of us spend our lives working toward comfort. We build careers, save for retirement, and create homes designed to make life easier. There is nothing wrong with that generally. A “Spartan life” is not what I am suggesting, but I can assure you, a completely comfortable existence is not healthy. In order to live your best life, stress yourself physically, mentally, and emotionally, and ask your body to adapt, get stronger, and adjust to the new normal. Your body will respond marvelously, and in the healing way it is programmed to behave when challenged. It will adapt and become stronger, more flexible, resilient, and better able to resist disease and adversity.
If you would like guidance with your own journey toward better health and longevity, contact our team at Turquoise Springs Medical Spa.
www.turquoisesprings.com. 210-253-3313
Children's Ballet of San Antonio Opens Auditions for Its 2026-2027 Season
For many parents, enrolling a child in ballet begins as an extracurricular activity. Yet research and experience consistently show that ballet training and participation in live productions offer far more than developing dance technique. Through dance, children cultivate discipline, confidence, resilience, creativity, teamwork, and leadership skills that will benefit them throughout their lifetime.
Children who perform on stage learn to work toward long-term goals, manage responsibility, collaborate with peers, overcome challenges, and present themselves with confidence before an audience. These experiences often translate into success in academics, future careers, and personal development.
The Children's Ballet of San Antonio (CBSA), a nonprofit organization, is dedicated to providing San Antonio’s most talented young artists with professionallevel performance opportunities while making highquality productions accessible to the community.
Under the artistic direction of Vanessa Bessler, one of San Antonio’s most highly recognized and awarded ballet
educators, CBSA students receive coaching in classical ballet and musical theatre repertoire from internationally respected artists, choreographers, and master teachers. Young performers gain invaluable experience working in a professional rehearsal environment while developing technical excellence and artistic expression.
Each season, CBSA presents major productions including The Children’s Nutcracker, The Polar Express, a spring classical ballet, and a spring musical theatre production. The spring production changes every season, exposing dancers to a diverse range of artistic styles and roles inspired by beloved works such as Swan Lake, Sleeping Beauty, and Don Quixote, as well as contemporary musical theatre favorites.
Through CBSA’s open auditions, children from across the community have the opportunity to perform on some of San Antonio’s most iconic stages, including the Lila Cockrell Theatre and the Majestic Theatre. Participation teaches accountability, perseverance, time management, and collaboration while creating unforgettable memories and lifelong friendships.
CBSA alumni have earned offers to professional trainee opportunities with prestigious organizations including Disney, Ballet Austin’s Butler Fellowship, Dutch National Ballet, Kansas City Ballet, Tulsa Ballet, Milwaukee Ballet, the Bolshoi International Traineeship, Nashville Ballet, Oklahoma City Ballet, English National Ballet, Sarasota Ballet, and Colorado Ballet, among others. Numerous high school students have also received nominations and scholarships through the Majestic Empire Foundation’s Joci Awards.
Participation prepares young artists for life, and CBSA graduates have also gone on to excel as collegiate performers and successful professionals in fields such as law, medicine, aeronautics, engineering, business, and education. When asked about the impact of dance on their success, they consistently indicate that the discipline, adaptability, and resilience they developed through ballet were integral to their success.
Equally important is CBSA’s commitment to making the arts accessible throughout Bexar County. Through the Community Outreach Program, CBSA works to reduce
barriers by offering inclusive audition and performance opportunities for children with special needs, dedicated opportunities for male dancers, complimentary tickets and transportation assistance for Title I schools and youthserving organizations, and educational performances for local nonprofits, schools, and cultural institutions.
The 2026–2027 season begins with auditions for The Polar Express, open to performers ages 8–19 on Friday, August 28, 2026, from 6:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. Rehearsals begin in September on Friday evenings, with performances scheduled for December 4–6, 2026.
Auditions for The Children’s Nutcracker will be held Saturday, August 29, 2026, from 12:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. and are open to performers ages 3–19. Rehearsals begin in September on Saturday afternoons, culminating in performances December 18–22, 2026.
Whether a child dreams of a professional dance career or simply wants to experience the excitement of performing on stage, participation in ballet productions offers an opportunity to build confidence, develop lifelong skills, and become part of a vibrant artistic community.
For audition information, registration details, and production updates, visit: childrensballetofsanantonio.org/ auditions.
By Melissa Fields CEO + Principal Designer, Shades of Gray Design Studio
Nestled in the Texas Hill Country near Canyon Lake, this early-2000s home in Spring Branch was ready for a complete refresh. While the homeowners currently reside in another city, the property serves as their home away from home when visiting family in San Antonio. With retirement on the horizon, they envisioned transforming the house into a warm and welcoming primary residence for their next chapter.
Our firm was brought in to reimagine the entry, dining room, great room, and kitchen. The homeowners’ passion for red wine—and ownership of wineries— became the inspiration behind the design. The goal was to create a California wine country aesthetic within the heart of the Texas Hill Country.
The renovation centered on layering organic materials, natural textures, and timeless finishes. Warm wood tones, brushed brass accents, and soft neutral hues establish an inviting foundation, while custom blue cabinetry and handcrafted green tile draw inspiration from Canyon Lake and the surrounding landscape. White marble countertops with delicate veining brighten the space, while deep wine-colored cabinetry featured in the custom wine wall and dining room buffet pays homage to the homeowners’ love of winemaking.
To create a greater sense of openness, outdated columns were removed, and low, fragmented soffits were eliminated, allowing the ceilings to soar to 12 feet. The result is a dramatically more expansive and
elegant living space. Existing mismatched flooring was replaced throughout with warm, wide-plank luxury vinyl flooring, creating continuity and flow.
The kitchen became the centerpiece of the renovation. A custom cooking alcove frames the new range and pot filler, highlighted by statement tile with brass inlays extending to ceiling-height cabinetry. A nearly 14foot island anchors the room and features a 57-inch workstation sink designed for effortless entertaining and meal preparation. Luxury appliances, concealed behind custom panels, ensure beauty and functionality coexist seamlessly.
The result is a sophisticated yet approachable retreat that reflects the homeowners’ lifestyle today while preparing them for the retirement years ahead.
Stacey Wilkerson, Executive Vice President; Robin Tooms, Chief Marketing Officer Laura Ward, Chief Risk Officer; Cynthia Crouch, Chief Experience Officer Wendy Cleveland, President & Chief Executive Officer
What do you love most about working in financial services?
Financial services, especially the credit union space, are deeply personal. I love that we help individuals and families achieve their goals and feel confident in their financial futures. Our teams show up for our members with empathy, creativity, and care.
What type of clients do you work with?
We serve people from all walks of life, at every stage of their financial journey. Whether it’s a young professional opening a first account, a family purchasing a home, or a member navigating a difficult moment, we meet them where they are.
What sets you apart from other professionals in your industry?
I lead with people and purpose at the center of every decision. I truly believe that our values shape how we show up every day. I’m intentional about creating alignment of mission, strategy, and culture with accountability and transparency. Measuring what matters helps ensure we’re delivering on our purpose to work together with our members to build their tomorrow.
Do you have any advice for women in thinking about their financial needs?
Take ownership of your financial journey. Ask questions and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself. Financial well-being is a key part of overall empowerment. When women feel confident in their financial decisions, it creates opportunities not only for themselves but for future generations.
What would you say to a woman considering a career in the financial services industry?
This is a field full of opportunity! Financial services combine analytical thinking with people-centered work. The outstanding women leaders at Firstmark and across our industry prove that your voice, perspective, and authenticity are assets. Stay curious, seek mentors, and be open to growth. Above all, stay grounded in your values. When your work aligns with what you believe, you can improve people’s lives.
Firstmark Credit Union
2023 Gold Canyon, San Antonio, TX 78232 (210) 442-0100 | firstmarkcu.org
by
David Teran
Ashley Ferguson, Senior Vice President, Wealth Management
Roxy Salinas, Vice President, Wealth Management
Kandice Sotuyo, Assistant Vice President, Private Banking
What do you love most about working in financial services?
What I love most is getting to know my clients on a deeper level and helping them make confident, meaningful decisions about their finances. I often think about life as the “dash” between the day we are born and the day we pass. My role is to help clients make the most of that dash — living with intention, clarity and purpose. It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of that journey and to make a positive impact on their lives. — Ashley Ferguson, Senior Vice President, Wealth Management
Do you have any advice for women in thinking about their financial needs?
Absolutely. My biggest advice is to start by truly knowing your numbers — understand your income, expenses, debts and assets. From there, set clear goals that reflect your values, whether that’s building an emergency fund, investing for the future or funding a passion project. Make sure you’re actively involved in all financial decisions, even if you share them with a partner. Finally, remember that financial independence isn’t just about money. It’s about having choices and security, so you can live life on your own terms. — Roxy Salinas, Vice President,
Wealth Management
What would you say to a woman considering a career in the financial services industry? I’d say it’s an incredible time for women in finance; you can truly make an impact helping people secure their financial futures. There’s a growing recognition of the value that diverse perspectives bring to financial planning, making it an exciting time for all of us. — Kandice
Sotuyo, Assistant Vice President, Private Banking
What is your specialization in the financial services industry?
I specialize in customer service within the banking industry, helping customers open accounts, answer questions about banking products and services, and understand ways to protect themselves from fraud. I enjoy making financial services feel approachable and helping customers feel confident and supported in their banking decisions.
What do you love most about working in financial services?
What I love most about working in financial services is the opportunity to guide customers through important financial decisions. I enjoy helping them find the products and services that best fit their needs and knowing they leave feeling confident, supported, and able to trust us with their banking needs.
Do you have any advice for women in thinking about their financial needs?
Take the time to create a budget, build an emergency fund, and make saving a priority. Financial independence is not just about money, it is about feeling secure, confident, and prepared to handle the financial challenges that come with life. Don’t be afraid to seek advice, ask questions, and learn about the financial tools available to help you reach your goals. Amarillo National Bank 1020 N E Loop 410, Suite 100, San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 536-5500 | anb.com
Photography by David Teran
Grace Morehouse, Addyson Brooks, Kayla Nowak, Leah Schoenfeld, Kendra McKennie, Lisa Herron, Jennifer Bailey
Leah Schoenfeld - SVP, Senior Private Wealth Banker
I am a Private Wealth Banker working with high-net-worth individuals and families, creating thoughtful, customized banking and credit solutions. I specialize in aviation finance, premium finance, and various lines of credit.
I work with entrepreneurs, executives, and families who have complex financial lives and value a relationship built on trust, accessibility, and a truly personalized approach. I take a very personal, thoughtful approach, focusing on what matters most to each client and connecting them with the right solutions. I strive to combine the capabilities of a large institution with the feel of a highly personalized, boutique experience.
Addyson Brooks, Vice President - Corporate Banking
I work with businesses to obtain financing and cash management solutions. I specialize in working with businesses over $20 million in revenue, up into the large corporate space.
I work with business clients across all industries. I have worked with everything from heavy equipment, contractors, food services, family-owned, ESOPs… I love learning new things about industries and companies every day. Most of the time, we can find a creative way to help our clients across industry and revenue size. In the scenario that we can’t, we always strive to bring other ideas and solutions to the table to help them meet their goals.
I specialize in corporate banking credit underwriting with a focus on evaluating complex middle-market to large corporate clients in our footprint. In partnership with my banker, we work as a team to structure a credit facility that meets the lending needs of the client while also managing and understanding the risk appetite of the bank.
Banking is all about people and relationships. We work in an industry that requires trust, collaboration, communication, and adding value. Every day we work to build that trust and those relationships both internally with our teammates and externally with our clients. At the end of the day, it’s extremely rewarding to know you have helped a business succeed, and a business owner realize their potential.
Bank of Texas
755 E. Mulberry Ave., Suite 520, San Antonio, TX 78212 (210) 200-6770 | www.bankoftexas.com
Angela K. Holliday, Senior Vice President, Director of Business Strategy and Regional Manager Laurie Griffith, Executive Vice President/Regional President
Two Leaders. One Vision. Elevating Commercial Banking & Wealth in San Antonio
In an industry historically dominated by men, two seasoned leaders are helping redefine what financial leadership looks like in San Antonio.
A Trusted Leader in Commercial Banking
Laurie Griffith brings a distinguished background in commercial banking and relationship management. As a regional president, she has built a reputation across San Antonio for helping business owners access capital, scale responsibly, and plan strategically for the future. Her strong regional presence and deep understanding of San Antonio’s business landscape position her as a trusted advisor to companies across industries.
A Career Built on Growth and Leadership
With nearly three decades in wealth management, Angela Holliday has built her career on developing high-performing advisory teams and helping clients navigate life’s most important financial decisions. Her leadership philosophy centers on long-term relationships, strategic planning, and empowering both clients and advisors to reach their full potential.
Stronger Together at SouthState
Now united at SouthState, Laurie and Angela represent the power of integrated financial services, where commercial banking and wealth management collaborate to support clients holistically. SouthState’s expanding presence in San Antonio reflects its commitment to relationship-driven banking. With a legacy of stability, strategic growth, and personalized service, the company continues to invest in experienced leadership that understands the local market.
Advancing Female Leadership
Beyond their professional achievements, both leaders share a commitment to advancing women in business. Through mentorship, community engagement, and client-focused initiatives such as women-centered financial events, they are helping create space for more women to lead confidently in finance. Together, they are not only shaping the future of commercial banking and wealth in San Antonio, they are modeling collaborative, values-driven leadership for the next generation.
SouthState Bank 2722 W. Bitters Suite 126, San Antonio, TX 78248 | (210) 806-5510
Photography by David Teran
Harlee Holcomb, VP, Financial Advisor (BWSI); Lynn Yznaga, SVP, Consumer Real Estate Operations Manager; Jennifer Mansour, SVP, Deputy Chief Credit Officer; Alyssa Hartlage, SVP, Commercial Real Estate Lender; Robin Badillo, VP, Financial Advisor (BWSI); Brandy McQuiston, VP, Private Banker
What is your specialization in the financial services industry?
At Broadway Bank and Broadway Wealth Solutions, Inc., our teams are dedicated to simplifying our clients’ financial lives and delivering an integrated, comprehensive experience. Our approach is highly personalized and tailored to each client’s definition of success and the milestones that matter most to them. We provide thoughtful guidance across every aspect of a client’s financial life — from lending to long-term legacy planning — helping clients navigate both personal and business goals with confidence.
What sets you apart from other professionals in your industry?
As an independent, family-owned bank, we are deeply rooted in the communities we serve and committed to being here for generations to come. Our local team brings together highly credentialed professionals across Commercial Banking, Private Banking, and Wealth Management, who take the time to understand what matters most to our clients and act with their best interests at the center of every decision. With deep local insight and a long-term perspective, we help our clients navigate complexity with clarity and confidence. Learn more at broadway.bank.
How do your teams work together to deliver a premium experience?
We believe delivering a premium experience begins with thoughtful coordination and a shared commitment to our clients. Our teams work closely behind the scenes to ensure every interaction feels seamless, responsive, and highly personalized. By emphasizing collaboration and encouraging open communication, we are able to anticipate needs, reduce complexity, and deliver guidance that is both proactive and cohesive. As a result, our clients have shared that our experience feels effortless and supported by the full strength of our team.
Broadway Bank: 1177 NE Interstate 410 Loop, San Antonio, TX 78209 | broadway.bank Wealth Management (210) 944-1128 | Private Banking (210) 805-8484 | Commercial Banking (210) 283-4024
Broadway Wealth Solutions, Inc.: 1177 NE Interstate 410 Loop, 5th Floor, San Antonio, TX 78209 (210) 283-6600 | broadwayws.com
Teran
How has your military career prepared you for your current job?
The Navy didn't just prepare me for nonprofit leadership— it shaped who I am as a leader. During nearly 30 years of service, I learned that leadership is ultimately about people: inspiring them around a shared mission, earning their trust, developing their potential, and creating an environment where they can succeed. As a Navy Captain, I was entrusted with leading thousands of personnel, managing complex organizations, multimillion-dollar budgets, and strategic initiatives spanning multiple states. Those experiences taught me how to make difficult decisions, navigate change, build high-performing teams, and remain accountable to those I served.
Just as important, my military career taught me the value of collaboration. Whether working with other military services, federal agencies, international partners, or community leaders, I learned that lasting success comes from building relationships and bringing people together around a common purpose.
Today, as Chairman of the Board of Guide Dogs of Texas, I draw on those same principles every day. The mission may be different, but the leadership fundamentals remain the same: serve with integrity, steward resources wisely, empower others to lead, and never lose sight of the people whose lives your organization exists to change. For me, nonprofit leadership is simply another opportunity to continue a lifetime of service.
What advice do you have for other women transitioning from the military to the civilian workforce?
Leaving the military isn't about leaving your identity behind—it's about discovering new ways to serve. The leadership skills you've developed through military service are invaluable, even if you don't immediately recognize their worth. Those experiences translate to every sector.
My advice is to be confident in what you bring to the table, but humble enough to keep learning. Continuously build your network, find mentors who will challenge and encourage you, and don't be afraid to take on opportunities outside your comfort zone. Most importantly, remember that leadership isn't defined by a uniform or a rank. It's defined by your character, your willingness to serve others, and the positive impact you make wherever your next mission takes you.
Who or what has helped you the most in your career?
Early in my career, I was the only woman officer among seven Marine Corps F/A-18 fighter squadrons and a Marine Air Group. My commander, then-Colonel Jim Amos, recognized my potential, challenged me to meet high standards, and became a mentor and advocate. He judged me by performance, not gender, which gave me resilience to persevere when I might otherwise have left the service. His leadership changed my career, instilling values that helped me earn promotions and eventually command at the highest level. His example taught me the importance of investing in others, a lesson I continue to pass on.
Any additional thoughts or questions you’d like to add?
When I reflect on my journey, I don't think first about the positions I held or the awards I received. I think about the people who believed in me, the teams I had the privilege to lead, and the lives that were made better because we worked together toward something meaningful. Leadership is never about one person—it is about empowering others to succeed and leaving every organization stronger than you found it. Whether in a Navy uniform, leading a nonprofit, or serving my community, that has always been my purpose. Retirement didn't end my commitment to service; it simply gave me a new mission. I hope my story encourages others to lead with courage, serve with humility, and never underestimate the difference one person can make.
This Feature Sponsored by:
By Michelle Vasquez | Photography by David Teran
Sometimes the most unexpected places become the ones where lives begin to change, like inside Bexar County’s courthouse. The Pearls and Eagles Courts are redefining what a courtroom can represent for youth in foster care. Here, it is a place where young people are encouraged, supported, and reminded of their own potential. “We want every child that’s in the foster program to see that a courtroom doesn’t have to be a place of fear,” said Judge Nadine Nieto of the 285th District Court. “It can be a launch pad for their success.”
The Pearls and Eagles Courts are civil-based specialty courts serving youth in foster care who are wards of the state. The mission is to provide guidance, resources, and connection during one of the vital transitions in a young person’s life. Rather than focusing on what has happened in their past, the programs focus on what is possible in their future and cultivate a sense of hope.
The Pearls Court was established in 2015 to support young women in foster care. Several years later, Judge David Canales recognized that young men deserved access to the same encouragement, resources, and opportunities. “What about the boys?” became the question that inspired the creation of Eagles Court in 2020.
Today, the programs work together under the Children’s Court in Bexar County, supported by judicial leadership, community volunteers, and the Pearls Foundation, a nonprofit organization that helps provide additional resources and experiences for participants.
Judges Nadine Nieto and Raul Perales lead the Eagles Court, while Judges Angelica Jimenez and Rosie Alvarado oversee the Pearls Court. Although each court serves a different population, the four judges work together as one team, strengthening a common mission to help foster youth build confidence, connection, and a foundation for the future. “The goal of the program is to build supportive relationships with them and bridge their journey into adulthood,” said Judge Perales. The program focuses on education, mentorship, exposure to new opportunities, and the consistent presence of trusted adults who show up. Historically, these youth have not had strong adult influences in their lives.
For Nieto, continuing the work started by Judge Canales has become both a responsibility and a calling. She understands that sometimes a young person’s path can change when someone takes the time to understand what they truly need. For youth who may not have consistent support systems, Pearls and Eagles provide something powerful: adults who are watching, listening, and advocating for them. “They see you making orders on their behalf, in their best interest,” Nieto said. “I want them to know that I’m in their corner supporting them.”
The programs serve youth ages 14 to 18 who are referred through foster care advocates, mentors or community partners. Once accepted, participants receive ongoing support through quarterly hearings, programming nights, and resources designed to help them successfully transition into adulthood. Judges check in on school, employment, health, goals, and dreams. They celebrate accomplishments and help remove obstacles. A major focus is education. Through the courts, judges can appoint educational interventionists who advocate directly for students and identify challenges that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Nieto recalls one young man who was struggling academically and at risk of falling behind. Through intervention, advocates discovered he had dyslexia and had never received the appropriate support. Once provided with the right resources, his confidence and trajectory changed. “I think, what would I do as your mother?” Nieto said. “Not just as a judge, but what would I do for you?” That philosophy extends throughout Pearls and Eagles. The programs focus on helping young people imagine what is possible, not just addressing challenges. Programming nights introduce participants to life skills, career options, and community leaders. The goal is the same: stability, independence, and economic mobility.
For the Eagles Court, those hopes are reflected directly in the program’s name. EAGLES represents Esteem, Achievement, Grit, Learning, Leadership, Empowerment, and Strength, qualities the program works to help each participant recognize within themselves. “I want them to have confidence in themselves,” Nieto said. “I want them to achieve and feel like they can do anything.”
Building that confidence often begins with exposure. Participants visit college campuses, explore trade and career opportunities, and connect with professionals willing to share their own experiences and journeys. They are also supported in moments that extend beyond academics and careers, including the arts, culture, and experiences they may not otherwise have encountered. “Sometimes it just takes exposure to see what the possibility is,” Nieto said.
Beyond resources, the foundation of the program is relationships. “The data shows that the way that we heal from trauma is by building strong, consistent, healthy relationships with safe adults,” said Judge Jimenez. Mentors, volunteers, and community partners play a critical role by providing encouragement, consistency, and connection. For youth who may have experienced years of change, having someone show up repeatedly can make a lasting difference. “All it takes is one person,” Nieto said. The impact of Pearls and Eagles extends beyond the courthouse. The programs represent what can happen when an entire community chooses to invest in young
people. “It is encouraging that we have a community that has adopted and embraced the outreach program,” said Judge Alvarado. As awareness grows, leaders hope to expand participation, recruit additional mentors, and inspire similar programs beyond Bexar County.
For Nieto and the other judges involved, the commitment extends beyond the bench because they believe in the impact. “You feel like you’re giving back and you are making a difference,” Nieto said. “And you wouldn’t change it for the world.” The greatest measure of success is not simply helping youth graduate or find employment. It is helping them recognize their own potential. “My hope is that these kids feel seen,” Nieto said. “That they feel understood and that they feel accepted.”
Because sometimes changing a life begins with something simple: someone standing beside you, believing in you, and reminding you that you were always meant to soar.
By Michelle Vasquez | Photography by David Teran
Impact San Antonio will again award $100,000 High Impact Grants to five San Antonio and surrounding area non-profits this year.
Through our 2026 membership campaign, we have raised more than $500,000 to benefit our community.
By
When Chiscano Hossa & Calve opened in January 2026, the vision was to create a boutique firm where attorneys with complementary strengths work together to solve clients’ most challenging legal problems.
Founded by partners Steve Chiscano, Nadeen Hossa Montagnino and Billy Calve, the firm brings together three practice areas that often intersect: commercial litigation, appellate advocacy and white-collar defense. Chiscano’s commercial litigation experience supports businesses navigating disputes; Calve provides counsel in complex criminal and government-related matters; and Hossa leads the appellate practice, a specialized area focused on analyzing legal issues, developing arguments, and reviewing decisions made during the trial process.
For clients, the combination creates a comprehensive approach. A business dispute may require courtroom advocacy, strategic guidance throughout litigation and an appellate strategy designed to protect a client’s interests before, during and after trial. “All three of those practices work together,” Hossa said. “They don’t create conflicts.”
The firm’s philosophy is simple: understand the client, understand the problem and determine the best path forward. “We really get close with our clients to figure out what their needs are and try to resolve matters as efficiently as possible,” she said.
Hossa’s path was shaped by a passion for analysis, advocacy and solving complex problems. A graduate of The University of Texas at Austin and St. Mary’s University School of Law, she discovered early that she was drawn to the research, writing and strategy behind the law. That interest led her naturally toward appellate law, where she found a practice area that combined her strengths in analysis, writing, and courtroom strategy.
After law school, Hossa served as a briefing attorney and later a staff attorney for Chief Justice Rebeca Martinez at the Fourth Court of Appeals. There, she drafted opinions, researched legal issues, and gained experience across a wide range of civil and criminal legal issues. “I like research and writing, but I don’t want to be that appellate lawyer who’s only sitting at their desk writing briefs,” she said. “I also enjoy the part of being in court.” Today, she is building the firm's appellate practice alongside associates Hannah Mery and Haley Entrop-Ozment, who work across appellate law and commercial litigation. Together, the three attorneys form an all-female appellate team, reflecting Hossa's commitment to developing the next
generation of appellate advocates while serving clients. That combination of talent and shared purpose has helped shape both the firm's culture and the practice she envisioned.
For Hossa, that vision extends beyond legal services to creating more opportunities for women to build sustainable careers and move into leadership roles.
Today, women are entering the legal profession in record numbers, but Hossa believes the next challenge is ensuring they stay, grow, and lead. “The problem is women are not staying in the practice of law,” she said.
Through the Bexar County Women’s Bar Foundation LEAD Academy and the San Antonio Young Lawyers Association, Hossa advocates for helping women remain in law and become partners, business owners and leaders.
She also believes women bring perspectives that strengthen outcomes for clients, particularly in areas requiring communication, adaptability, and the ability to bring different perspectives to complex problems. “We need the perspective of women in the room to help with trial strategy, to help with problem solving and creative settlement solutions,” she said.
At the same time, Hossa believes advancing women requires collaboration across the profession. She credits mentors and partners, including Chiscano, for recognizing talent and creating opportunities. “Established attorneys are the bridge between our profession’s past and future,” Chiscano said. “Our job is to use our relationships, reputation, and experience to give emerging leaders real opportunities—serious cases, real client contact, and visible leadership roles—so that talent like Nadeen can flourish and, ultimately, surpass us.”
For Hossa, Chiscano Hossa & Calve represents more than a new law firm. It reflects a collaborative approach where experience and emerging leadership work together, different perspectives strengthen client solutions, and the next generation of lawyers is empowered to lead.
Chiscano Hossa & Calve, PLLC 9601 McAllister Fwy, Ste 401 | San Antonio, TX 78216 (210) 560-0006 www.lawCHC.com
Shellie Reyes
Founding Partners
Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC
Business Law Built for San Antonio 2338 N Loop 1604 W, Suite 115 San Antonio, TX 78248 (210) 762-6422
clausewitzreyes.com
Tiffanie Clausewitz and Shellie Reyes are the founding partners of Clausewitz Reyes, PLLC, a San Antonio-based business law firm committed to providing personalized, strategic legal counsel to businesses and individuals across Texas. As a small business themselves, Tiffanie and Shellie have built a firm that meets clients where they are, offering responsiveness, practical guidance, and aggressive representation when it matters most. The firm’s practice areas include business law, commercial litigation, commercial real estate, corporate governance, labor and employment, estate planning, and probate.
Tiffanie Clausewitz founded the firm in 2019 with a clear mission: deliver no-nonsense, results-driven legal representation with the kind of accessibility and integrity that clients deserve. A graduate of Texas A&M University, the University of Texas at San Antonio, and St. Mary’s University School of Law, Tiffanie has earned recognition from the San Antonio Bar Association, Bexar County Women’s Bar Association, St. Mary’s University School of Law, Super Lawyers, and the San Antonio Business Journal, among others. A former President of the Bexar County Women’s Bar Association and Foundation, she is the founding Director of the Foundation’s LEAD Academy — a leadership program dedicated to empowering women in the legal profession. Tiffanie is also the founding and current Board Chair of Alegria Women’s Chorus of San Antonio.
Shellie Reyes joined the firm at its formation, bringing a fierce reputation in business litigation, including breach of contract, breach of fiduciary duties, business owner disputes and real estate disputes. A Fellow of the Texas Bar Foundation and a Texas Top Women Lawyer recognized by Super Lawyers, Shellie is known for her tenacity in the courtroom and her deep commitment to the San Antonio community. She is an alumna of the San Antonio Hispanic Chamber of Commerce’s Latina Leadership Institute and currently serves on the program’s Steering Committee.
Together, Tiffanie and Shellie lead a team that delivers sophisticated yet practical legal counsel to help Texas businesses navigate every stage of the business lifecycle — from formation and growth to acquisitions, disputes, and strategic expansion.
Sydney K. Bosworth Founding Attorney
Bosworth Law Firm, PLLC
2018 Avenue B, Suite 310
San Antonio, TX 78215
(210) 877-9605
sydney@bosworthlawfirm.com bosworthlawfirm.com
Sydney K. Bosworth is the founder and managing attorney of Bosworth Law Firm PLLC, a San Antonio litigation firm known for strong advocacy in family law and personal injury matters. Recognized for her poised courtroom presence, direct communication style, and relentless work ethic, Sydney helps clients navigate some of life’s most difficult and uncertain moments.
Whether representing a parent in a custody dispute, a spouse protecting hard-earned assets, or an injured client recovering after a serious accident, Sydney approaches every case with the same belief: clients deserve to feel protected, informed, and supported.
Sydney founded Bosworth Law Firm to offer a different kind of legal experience, one that combines strategic advocacy with compassion, responsiveness, and genuine human connection. That client-centered approach has resonated with individuals and families across San Antonio and beyond.
A graduate of St. Mary’s University School of Law, Sydney focuses her practice on high-conflict divorces, custody disputes, complex property division, prenuptial agreements, and personal injury litigation. She regularly represents business owners, professionals, military families, and parents facing emotionally charged legal matters, as well as individuals dealing with the physical, emotional, and financial impact of serious accidents.
Clients value Sydney’s ability to stay composed under pressure while advocating fiercely for what matters most. Her background in psychology and communications helps her navigate difficult personalities, high-stakes negotiations, and complex litigation with strategy and insight. She is known for thorough preparation, courtroom confidence, and a deep commitment to every case she handles.
Outside the courtroom, Sydney is a wife, mother, entrepreneur, and proud San Antonio business owner. Under her leadership, Bosworth Law Firm continues to expand across San Antonio and Houston while maintaining the personalized attention and clientfocused service that define the firm’s reputation.
Hella V. Scheuerman Attorney at Law
Scheuerman Law Firm, PLLC
4358 Lockhill Selma Rd, Ste. 102
San Antonio, Texas 78249
(210) 741-9000 (phone)
(210) 735-2235 (fax)
hella@sch-lawfirm.com www.sch-lawfirm.com
Hella Scheuerman is a trial attorney at the Scheuerman Law Firm, PLLC. She represents clients facing disputes in Probate, Guardianship, Estate or serious Personal Injury matters. Hella provides tailored legal strategies to protect her client’s rights and interests. In her 29 years of practice, she has obtained significant trial experience as lead attorney in more than 50 jury trials to verdict. Hella is Board Certified in Personal Injury Trial Law by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization.
Hella represents individuals involved in will contests, as well as contests over the determination of heirs and/or administration of an estate. Her firm offers guidance to clients, whether as administrators, executors, heirs, or guardians, in each process of the litigated dispute, through the Final Judgment. In guardianship cases, she counsels clients in disputes regarding whether a loved one does nor does not need a guardian of the person and/or estate, as well as in disputes involving the choice of guardian or removal of a guardian due to breach of their fiduciary duties.
Advocating for clients who have suffered serious personal injuries as a result of another’s negligence and holding them liable for the resulting injuries is a priority for Hella. These types of accidents cause the injured party to incur high medical bills, physical pain and mental anguish and lost wages. Hella fights for her clients to be made whole through monetary damages.
Hella is involved in her community through many leadership and civic roles, including the Texas Chapter of the American Board of Trial Advocates (TEX-ABOTA) and San Antonio Trial Lawyers Association (SATLA). She is also involved in her community in philanthropic nonprofit organizations, which includes her service in the Executive Committee of Catholic Charities.
Olga Brown Attorney at Law
Law Office of Olga Brown
106 S. St. Mary’s, Ste 250
San Antonio, TX 78205
Office: 210-226-1550
With a legal career spanning more than 45 years, Olga Brown brings wisdom, resilience, and unmatched dedication to the courtroom. A graduate of the University of the Incarnate Word and St. Mary's University School of Law, Olga is a highly respected attorney practicing in business litigation, personal injury, and real estate litigation.
"I enjoy my practice now more than ever," she says. "Female attorneys have proven our skills are equal— if not superior—to our male counterparts. It's a rewarding time to be a woman in law."
Before entering the legal field, Olga worked as a journalist and was a stay-at-home mother—roles that sharpened her intuition, empathy, and communication, all of which serve her well in litigation. A self-described work enthusiast, Olga often finds herself at the office, even on weekends, though she also makes time to enjoy tennis and collect art.
Her commitment to justice has earned her recognition, including honors as a 2024–2025 Top Attorney of North America, 2024 Top Attorney in America, and listings in the Continental Who's Who Registry of Lawyers, SA Scene's Best Lawyers in San Antonio, Top Personal Injury Lawyers, and Outstanding Women in Law.
A proud member of the San Antonio Trial Lawyers Association and the Texas Board of Directors for the Texas Trial Lawyers Association, Olga also takes pride in having inspired the next generation: both of her daughters are attorneys. Patricia Braun, a Yale Law graduate, lives in Washington, D.C., and Alanna Brown Pozzi, based in Denver, has transitioned from environmental law to founding a mission-driven sustainability business.
Above all, Olga is grateful to the San Antonio community for entrusting her with their legal challenges. "Every case brings something new to learn," she says. "It keeps me curious, sharp, and always ready to serve."
Jane H. Macon Partner
Bracewell LLP
300 Convent , STE 2700
San Antonio, Texas 78205
210.299.3517
bracewell.com
jane.macon@bracewell.com
For over 50 years, Jane Macon has shaped San Antonio through her service, philanthropy, and advocacy. As the city’s first female City Attorney in the 1970s, she helped secure land for Texas A&M San Antonio and expanded healthcare access for vulnerable residents during COVID. Jane is a tireless champion for children and women, raising substantial funds for After School All-Stars and Girl Scouts of Southwest Texas. After the Uvalde tragedy, she led rapid fundraising efforts, expanding local support services. Jane co-founded the Texas chapter of the International Women’s Forum under Mayor Lila Cockrell and still leads it today. Her leadership connected her to Muriel Siebert, leading to her role as chairwoman of Siebert Financial Corp. Known for empowering women and people of color, Jane’s influence has touched the Alamo Dome, Riverwalk, Spurs, and more. Humble yet impactful, she’s a vital connector and advocate who brings resources and resilience to San Antonio.
Caroline McDonald Co-Founder, Attorney
Brown & McDonald
100 NE Loop 410 STE 1385 San Antonio, TX 78216
210.429.7931
brownmcdonaldlaw.com
Caroline McDonald co-founded and is the majority shareholder at Brown & McDonald, PLLC, a San Antonio based land use law firm. Caroline has dedicated her entire legal career to land use, zoning, and environmental regulations. Her experience includes everything from small-scale neighborhood rezonings to securing complex entitlements and economic incentives, such as the creation of Tax Increment Reinvestment Zones (TIRZ) and Public Improvement Districts (PID).
Caroline earned her undergraduate degree from Texas Tech University in 2012 and her Juris Doctor from Texas Tech University School of Law in 2015. She is currently the Vice Chair of the San Antonio Bar Association’s Environmental Law Section, and a Board Member of the Young Women’s Christian Association of San Antonio. Caroline now lives in Alamo Heights with her husband, Dylan, their two daughters and son.
Managing Partner
Goldstein & Orr
315 E Commerce St., Suite 301 The Historic Staacke Stevens Building San Antonio, TX 78205 210.226.1463 whitecollarlaw@gmail.com goldsteinhilley.com
Cynthia Orr, President of the International Society for the Reform of Criminal Law, past Chair of the ABA Criminal Justice Section, in the ABA House of Delegates, on the Texas Board of Law Examiners, and is past President of NACDL, TCDLA, and SACDLA. She obtained cancer survivor health coverage in Congress effective 2024. She is in the San Antonio Women’s Hall of Fame (2006), the TCDLA Hall of Fame (2022) and is Board Certified in Criminal Law and Appeals, is listed in the Best Lawyers in America White Collar Crime and is Premiere AV Rated by Martindale Hubble.
Janicek Law
1100 NE Loop 410, Suite 600, San Antonio, Texas 78209 210.366.4949 | JanicekLaw.com | Beth@janiceklaw.com
Beth Janicek is the Founder and Lead Attorney of Janicek Law and a Board-Certified Personal Injury Trial Lawyer with more than 30 years of experience representing individuals and families harmed by negligence. She has recovered millions of dollars for clients in complex medical malpractice, birth injury, child injury, wrongful death, and catastrophic injury cases.
Beth is particularly known for her work in birth injury and obstetrical negligence litigation, representing mothers and infants who have suffered preventable harm during pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Her practice combines extensive trial experience with a deep understanding of medicine, allowing her to navigate some of the most complex and challenging cases in personal injury law.
Since founding Janicek Law in 2003, Beth has built a reputation for client advocacy, courtroom excellence, and a commitment to holding healthcare institutions accountable. Through her work, she seeks justice for families and improvements in patient safety and healthcare practices.
What do you love most about your work?
At J.R.’s Plumbing, we’ve dedicated many service hours to conservation efforts and to helping low-income families and elderly homeowners restore water and sewer service in their homes. Knowing that we’re able to make that kind of difference in our community is incredibly rewarding and personally fulfilling for me.
What do you do to relax outside of work?
I wouldn’t necessarily call it relaxing, but spending time with my grandbabies is always the most fun. Family time is truly the best time for me. We’re very close-knit, and we don’t enjoy being apart—distance and space are definitely not our favorite when it comes to family.
What would people be surprised to know about you?
I may not fit the traditional “plumber” image, so owning a plumbing company often surprises people—in the best way. There’s a lot of excitement around seeing a woman-
owned business in this industry, and I’m proud that we can use our platform to support and advocate for other small, minority-owned businesses.
Who has influenced you the most in your life or career?
Ignacio Villarreal Jr., RMP and previous owner of J.R.’s Plumbing, has been one of my greatest inspirations. He instilled in me valuable business sense, lessons, and knowledge—but most importantly, he believed in me. For the past 20 years, he has supported and backed me 200%. When he sold me the business, he entrusted me with continuing his legacy, and that gave me all the inspiration I needed to carry it forward with pride.
What’s your favorite thing to do for fun in San Antonio?
San Antonio is incredibly diverse and full of energy. I enjoy spending time downtown, exploring new eateries and soaking in the city’s rich culinary culture. Some of the best friendships and memories are made around the table, sharing good food and great company.
What career path led you to where you are today?
There wasn’t a defined career path—just pure destiny. I was a stay-at-home mom looking for a bit of adult interaction, and my two-year-old daughter needed kids her age, so I went out looking for a job and found J.R.’s Plumbing. That was nearly 20 years ago. Over time, my passion for the industry and for small business grew as I became more involved in organizations like PHCC San Antonio, where I now serve as President (2025–2026), and the Hispanic Contractors Association de San Antonio, where I will serve as President (2026–2027). These organizations focus on education, building connections, and creating opportunities for small, minority-, veteran-, and women-owned businesses, while also strengthening the workforce across the construction industry.
What is it like to work in a male-dominated industry?
It was intimidating at first, but I quickly realized that the men in this industry aren’t competition—they’re a valuable source of knowledge. Many have been willing to lend a hand and share their experiences. Over time, I’ve seen this male-dominated industry begin to truly embrace the skill, determination, and perspective that women bring to the table
Lagree Onda is a locally owned boutique fitness studio in the heart of King William. Built with intention and rooted in community, Onda brings together thoughtful movement, welcoming energy, and effective full-body strength training in a warm, small-group setting.
Official Lagree reformers
Small-group classes for all levels
Low-impact, full-body strength training
Female-owned and locally operated in King William
Memberships, class packs, and drop-ins available
Built by neighbors, for neighbors — wave by wave.
Spider veins on your legs and other indications that a medical evaluation is warranted.
By John Hogg, MD, DABR, DABVLM, RPVI, RPhS, RVT, RVS Founder, Medical Vein Clinic
Most women we see who come in asking about their spider veins start with a version of the same sentence. “I just want them to look better before summer.” And, sometimes the answer really is a cosmetic fix. But more often, the spider veins on the surface are the visible end of something happening deeper in the legs.
What we may think is a beauty concern can turn out to be progressive, but treatable vein disease.
“Spider veins and varicose veins are not the same thing?”
Spider veins are the fine red or blue lines that web across the surface of the skin, usually on the thighs, calves, or ankles. Varicose veins are the larger, raised, ropey ones that bulge above the skin. They look different, and people often treat them as two separate issues, but they usually share the same root cause: a one-direction valve deeper in the leg that has stopped closing properly, letting blood pool and fall down instead of moving back toward the heart. Doctors call it venous insufficiency, and it’s the reason spider veins so often come back with a vengeance after they’re treated at the surface. If nobody addresses the source of the problem, the pressure feeding them, they will refill.
This is why it’s important to have a thorough mapping venous ultrasound, read by someone trained to interpret it, to determine whether those surface veins are cosmetic or a symptom of vein disease.
“It doesn’t hurt, so it’s fine?”
Absence of pain gets read as absence of disease, and that assumption costs women valuable time deterring vein disease. “Pain is the least common symptom I ever see with serious underlying vein disease”. Heaviness in your legs by the end of the day, aching legs, swelling around the ankle, night cramps, restless legs, itching, and changes in the color of the skin near the ankle are all more common signs of venous trouble. People
frequently chalk them up to age or to standing all day at work, and wait. “My mother had these; it’s just genetic” is the close cousin of this one. Family history is a real risk factor. It is not a reason to do nothing about it.
“I’ll just take a water pill for the swelling.”
This is the misconception that worries us most, because it can be dangerous. Diuretics, the “water pills” some women reach for when their legs swell, are made to pull fluid off the whole body for conditions like heart or kidney problems. The swelling from venous insufficiency is a local pressure problem in the leg, and a diuretic doesn’t fix it. What it can do is dehydrate someone, drop their blood pressure, and throw their electrolytes out of balance, which, for an older woman or someone on other medications, can quickly turn serious. One of our patients, Judith (who generously allows us to talk about her medical journey), learned this the hard way. She’d been managing her leg swelling with water pills for months before she came in and was closer to a real medical emergency than she realized. Her swelling was from venous disease. It needed compression and a proper diagnosis, not a pill borrowed for the wrong job.
“The med spa said the laser would take care of it”
Unfortunately, the wellness market has muddied the waters for patients seeking relief from spider veins. “Laser for veins” can mean two completely different things. A surface laser can fade tiny spider veins, a cosmetic result. Endovenous laser ablation and radiofrequency ablation (RFA) treat the failing vein underneath, and so does Varithena, a foam that closes the diseased vein from the inside. VenaSeal, a medical acrylate glue, also closes the vein. Those are medical procedures that should follow an ultrasound and be done by a certified vein specialist. When a spa advertises “laser for veins,” a woman often can’t tell which one she’s getting, and frequently it’s the surface treatment sold as if it solves the deeper problem that caused the spider veins in the first place.
“Can I just get a lymphatic massage instead?”
Lymphatic drainage massage is everywhere on social media right now, promoted for everything from depuffing your face to treating swelling that needs real medical management. The honest version: a lymphatic massage can feel wonderful and temporarily reduce puffiness, and it has a legitimate, limited role in supervised care. But for the kind of chronic swelling that comes with venous or lymphatic disease, regular compression is the part that actually works. The research is consistent on this. The gentle hand movements temporarily help with comfort and quality of life at the margins; the compression does the heavy lifting.
The nine-minute Instagram routine that promises to treat lymphedema is the sharpest example of the problem. Lymphedema and lipedema are real medical conditions, often misdiagnosed and often confused with each other, and they need a diagnosis and a full treatment plan from a trained clinician. A phone video is not that, and choosing a convenient option over a thorough clinical evaluation may mean a manageable condition gets worse.
The same first step, either way
Whether a woman walks in wanting her legs to look better or because they ache by dinnertime, the path forward begins in the same place. A thorough medical examination and a dedicated venous mapping ultrasound show what’s happening beneath the surface, and a vein specialist can tell her whether she’s looking at a cosmetic touch-up or a medical condition that’s been quietly progressing. Most of the women who delay treatment do it because they assume it’s vain (no pun intended), to ask. It isn’t. If your legs are trying to tell you something, it’s our job to listen and provide care.
John Hogg, MD, DABR, DABVLM, RPVI, RPhS, RVT, RVS Founder & CEO, Medical Vein Clinic®, BoardCertified in Diagnostic Radiology, Diplomat of the American Board of Venous & Lymphatic Medicine, Registered Physician in Vascular Interpretation, Registered Phlebology Sonographer, Registered Vascular Technologist, Registered Vascular Specialist
By Paul J. Watkins
In April 2026, Methodist Healthcare officially opened Methodist Physicians Westover Hills OB/GYN, the newest addition to its Methodist Physicians network of primary care, specialist, and subspecialist providers. Board-certified OB/GYNs
Christina E. Gutierrez, MD, FACOG, and Emily Bowden, MD, FACOG, lead the practice, located in the Far West Side of San Antonio.
Dr. Gutierrez was inspired to become a doctor by her mother, a former migrant worker who attended medical school after having children. “When I did my OB/GYN rotations as a medical student, I was drawn to the opportunity to form long-term relationships with patients and their families, sometimes spanning decades,” says Dr. Gutierrez, a San Antonio native with a secondary specialty in obesity medicine. “I’m still seeing patients today whose care journeys I’ve been a part of since 2003, and in many cases, I see young women that I delivered myself. I really value that longterm relationship across the reproductive spectrum while still being able to be in the labor and delivery room and the operating room and treat problems acutely. It’s the perfect blend of all the different aspects of medicine.”
Dr. Bowden, who also has a Master of Public Health degree, experienced a similar attraction to the OB/GYN specialty during medical school. “I saw the opportunity to help people create the families they want to have, in addition to helping women through the reproductive years, perimenopause, menopause, and beyond,” she recalls. “That, in combination with being able to do office procedures and GYN surgery, just made me fall in love with it.”
Drs. Bowden and Gutierrez mention five reasons for women to schedule an OB/GYN visit: screenings, symptom management, pregnancy planning, obtaining personalized guidance for each life stage, and identifying health issues that may require referrals to a different specialist. “Screening for health problems is such an important part of everyone’s life, especially for a woman,” relates Dr. Gutierrez. “As doctors, we can provide screening for problems like abnormal cervical cells, high blood pressure, diabetes or pre-diabetes, and breast health concerns. With the long-term relationships we have with our patients, we quite often are able to identify other health conditions and route patients in the right direction in the interest of prevention.”
Adds Dr. Bowden, “Another reason to schedule an OB/ GYN visit is to get personalized guidance for where you are in your life. It makes sure that you’re doing what’s necessary to take the best care of yourself that you can. This might mean discussing reproductive health, pregnancy planning, or making sure you’re as healthy as you can be before starting your family. It might mean managing symptoms, such as heavy cycles, pain, or menopause symptoms, before they affect your daily life. We’re here as a trusted confidant to help you make safe choices, so you’re living the healthiest you can through every stage of your life.”
For women who discover during the summer that they’re pregnant, the OB/GYNs emphasize these key points. “We try to get patients into the office as soon as possible once they have a positive pregnancy test so we can help guide and support them at this important time in their lives,” informs Dr. Gutierrez. “We love to get them on a prenatal vitamin as soon as possible,
provide guidance in terms of dietary changes, exercise recommendations, things to avoid— such as alcohol, tobacco, and certain medications—and screen for any conditions that could become complications as the pregnancy progresses.”
Dr. Bowden usually recommends that women come to see her between seven and eight weeks for an initial ultrasound. “If they have any risk factors that put them in a higher-risk pregnancy, I encourage them to reach out earlier. That way, if we need to minimize any risk and provide extra guidance, we can tackle that early on. At every visit, there are certain things that we’ll discuss, depending on the lab results that come back, and I’ll answer any questions the patient may have, including those about labor, delivery, and breastfeeding.”
Drs. Gutierrez and Bowden emphasize that their practice provides services beyond pregnancy care. “We provide care across a woman’s lifespan,” says Dr. Gutierrez.
“We provide a lot of preventive and gynecological care. This includes well-woman exams, cervical cancer screening, breast cancer screening, and helping women manage their menopause transition. In addition, we manage fibroids, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, and polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS, formerly PCOS), and any gynecological surgery needs. With my specialized training, I’m also able to help women with obesity-related conditions.”
“Further, we provide contraceptive discussion and management, and we diagnose the cause of abnormal periods or heavy bleeding and offer medical or surgical management,” notes Dr. Bowden. “We often see women who need IUD insertions or biopsies to rule out endometrial cancer, cervical cancer, or vulvar cancer, and we provide those services. We also offer surgical options as well, including minimally invasive
laparoscopy or robotic-assisted surgery if surgical intervention is required for a medical issue.”
There has been enormous population growth in the area that Methodist Physicians Westover Hills OB/GYN serves. Drs. Gutierrez and Bowden want women to know that they don’t have to go all the way downtown or to the medical center for their OB/GYN care. The doctors believe that the more convenient they can make it for busy moms to access care, the better. The new practice is that convenient option.
To schedule an appointment at Methodist Physicians Westover Hills OB/GYN, call 210-270-4210. The practice is located next to Methodist Hospital | Westover Hills at 5126 W. Loop 1604 N., Suite 328, San Antonio, Texas 78251.
There are several studies published that connect untreated hearing loss to cognitive decline, dementia, and social isolation. These studies can be concerning and sometimes eye-opening for those with hearing impairments who don’t realize how life-changing even a slight hearing loss can be.
Hearing loss is becoming increasingly common; personal headphones, loud concerts, and noises at work can damage our hearing. Hearing loss is a sign that you’ve had a fun, busy life! However, untreated hearing loss will continue to get worse with prolonged procrastination until it starts to affect other parts of your body, too.
If you’re reading this and you’re concerned about your—or a loved one’s—hearing loss but haven’t thought about treating it, read on. There are some worrisome statistics published that may give you the wake-up call you’ve been looking for.
A study from Johns Hopkins University examined almost one thousand adults, studying their rate of cognitive decline over three years. About half of the participants received hearing aids and audiological treatment, while the other half were assigned to a health education program. Both received follow-up examinations every six months.
Participants who received and wore the hearing aids reported incredible improvement in communication abilities over the course of the study—and an almost 50 percent reduction in the rate of cognitive decline, in comparison to participants in the health education program.
The head researcher, Dr. Frank Lin, said, “Hearing loss is very treatable in later life, which makes it an important public health target to reduce risk of cognitive decline and dementia.”
It’s crucial to get your hearing loss treated sooner rather than later, not just for better hearing, but for a better quality of life. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the way toward better hearing health.
Alamo Heights: 8620 N New Braunfels Ave. Suite 220, San Antonio, TX 78217
210-820-0525
Alamo Ranch: 6530 West Loop 1604 North Suite 106 San Antonio, Texas 78254
210-761-6163
Trusted by Tens of Thousands of Local People, Families, Physicians, and Organizations for 80 Years
By Chelcee Porter, PharmD, IFMCP
Do you find yourself wondering if you will ever feel like yourself again? Somewhere along the path of raising a family, growing your business, or climbing the corporate ladder, you realized that you just don’t feel like yourself anymore. Your body isn’t holding up the way it once did, and you start to question if you are going to feel like this forever.
First of all, you aren’t alone! These are common feelings that I see and hear about from my clients every single day. When you really think about it, your body has been through a lot! Pregnancy, postpartum, balancing work and motherhood. These are all phases that deplete nutrient stores and energy reservoirs. As a high-responsibility woman, you’ve most likely taken it upon yourself to do everything you can to get the job done, even at the cost of your own health.
But feeling like yourself again isn’t as simple as what people say. In fact, there are many factors working together to help your body run. This is exactly why one supplement, diet, or workout regimen didn’t solve all of your problems. Let’s break down the biggest misconception of hormone health and what you need to start feeling like yourself again.
The first things that come to women’s minds about hormones are estrogen and progesterone. And yes, they are two main components, but they aren’t the only ones. I want you to visualize an orchestra. Within the orchestra, there are many players, but those players all have different roles. There are strings, percussion, woodwinds, and many others. Each playing a distinct but vital role. Your hormones are the same: cortisol, progesterone, testosterone, and estrogen work together. But even beyond this small system, your hormones are interacting with other hormones in what is called the Endocrine system. This is made up of even more hormones such as insulin, cortisol, and thyroid hormone. You can’t create balance without looking at every player involved.
One of the biggest mistakes women make is assuming their body should respond the same way it did ten or twenty years ago. The truth is that your physiology changes throughout your life. The strategies that worked in your twenties may not work in your forties, and what supported you before children may not support you after years of balancing work, family, and countless responsibilities. That's why the answer is rarely doing more. It's understanding what your body needs now, creating a strategy that matches the season you're in, and having an expert to guide you along the way.
The good news in all of this is that it isn’t in your head. There is a reason you feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and not like yourself. If you find yourself thinking “nothing works for me”, rest assured that that isn’t the case. It’s most likely that your body just needs something different.
If you are ready to explore a new strategy for feeling like you again, book a free audit call at www.chelceeporter. com. There is a way that you can feel like yourself again so that you can make an even bigger impact in your work and at home!
When summer arrives in the Texas Hill Country, two destinations consistently rise to the top of every traveler's list: Wimberley and Canyon Lake. Located less than two hours from San Antonio, these iconic communities offer the perfect blend of natural beauty, small-town charm, outdoor adventure, and laid-back Texas hospitality. Whether you're planning a weekend getaway, a day trip with friends, or a family vacation before the school year begins, August is one of the best times to experience everything these beloved Hill Country gems have to offer.
Nestled among towering cypress trees and rolling hills, Wimberley has long been known as one of the most picturesque towns in Texas. Its charming downtown square is filled with locally owned boutiques, art galleries, wineries, specialty shops, and restaurants that invite visitors to slow down and savor the experience. In recent years, Wimberley has earned a reputation as one of the Hill Country's premier arts destinations, attracting creatives, artisans, and musicians from across the state.
Summer visitors often make a beeline for Blue Hole Regional Park, where crystal-clear spring-fed waters
provide a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. Surrounded by majestic cypress trees, Blue Hole remains one of the most photographed swimming spots in the state. Nearby, Jacob's Well Natural Area offers scenic hiking trails and an opportunity to explore one of Texas' most famous artesian springs.
August is also an excellent time to enjoy Wimberley's vibrant cultural scene. Outdoor performances, community events, and seasonal entertainment continue throughout the summer, while local galleries showcase the work of Hill Country artists. Visitors can spend the morning shopping downtown, cool off in Cypress Creek, and finish the evening with live music under the stars.
One event not to miss is Wimberley Market Days, held on the first Saturday of each month. Featuring hundreds of vendors, live music, handcrafted goods, antiques, and local food, it has become one of the largest and most beloved outdoor markets in Texas.
For those seeking breathtaking views, a climb to the top of Old Baldy offers a panoramic look across the valley, while nearby wineries, tasting rooms, and scenic patios provide the perfect setting to watch a Hill Country sunset.
Just a short drive from Wimberley lies Canyon Lake, a summer playground known for its sparkling blue water, limestone cliffs, and endless recreational opportunities. Often called the "Water Recreation Capital of Texas," Canyon Lake attracts boaters, anglers, swimmers, paddleboarders, and outdoor enthusiasts from across the state.
Covering more than 8,000 acres with miles of scenic shoreline, Canyon Lake is renowned for some of the clearest water in Texas. The lake's distinctive blue color comes from the limestone-rich terrain that naturally filters the water, creating postcard-worthy views throughout the summer months.
Nearby sections of the Guadalupe River provide additional opportunities for tubing and floating, making Canyon Lake a favorite destination for families and groups looking to cool off during the hottest weeks of the year.
Beyond the water, Canyon Lake offers unique experiences that showcase the region's natural history. Guided tours of the Canyon Lake Gorge reveal ancient limestone formations, fossils, and even dinosaur footprints dating back more than 100 million years. The surrounding Hill Country landscape also provides excellent hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, and scenic drives.
Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a little of both, Wimberley and Canyon Lake provide the ideal backdrop for an unforgettable summer escape.
Courtesy of Twin Liquors
OUR FAVORITE CHILLABLE WINES! Crisp, refreshing whites like Sancerre are a summer favorite thanks to their bright citrus, minerality, and they pair easily with everything from seafood to backyard grilling. Rosé continues to dominate patio season, but chillable reds are having a major moment too. Lighterbodied reds with softer tannins and thinner skins like Beaujolais, Pinot Noir, and Lambrusco are best served slightly chilled, making them perfect for hot-weather sipping without sacrificing flavor.
CHILL IT FAST. Need to chill a bottle fast? Skip the freezer and use an ice-water bath with a generous
handful of salt. The salted ice slurry rapidly lowers the bottle’s temperature and can chill wine in about 15 minutes, just in time for sunset on the patio.
SPRITZ IT UP! For an easy summer cocktail, don’t be afraid to serve wine over ice. A chilled rosé or Sauvignon Blanc poured over ice with sliced citrus, berries, or peaches makes a simple sangria-style drink perfect for pool days and backyard gatherings. Sparkling wine also pairs beautifully with fresh fruit and a splash of sparkling water for a light, refreshing spritz. Summer wine should feel relaxed, refreshing, and easy to enjoy, especially in the Texas heat.
by Esther Benedict
With its expansive sweeping wingspan, the sculpture captures the power, freedom, and grace of this majestic bird soaring through the sky.
Esther Benedict transforms steel, bronze, and stainless steel into sculptures that capture movement, emotion, and the enduring spirit of the natural world inviting connection and celebration of the beauty of life. A lifelong artist and horsewoman, she earned a degree in Horse Management before spending 16 years as an AFA-certified journeyman farrier, forging handmade horseshoes and developing a rare understanding of metal through fire, form, and craftsmanship. That experience became the foundation of her sculptural career and the inspiration behind her signature line-sculpture style, an expressive approach that allows each piece to be shaped by hand from start to finish. Her award-winning sculptures are exhibited in galleries, sculpture walks, public spaces, and private collections throughout the United States and abroad. Esther’s work is showcased locally at Helotes Gallery in Old Town Helotes and through her own gallery and outdoor sculpture walk in Pipe Creek, Texas.
Chronic knee pain is often caused by inflammation or osteoarthritis in the knee that is fed by blood flow. There’s a new, non-invasive treatment, performed by Medical Vein Clinic’s doctors, called GAE that relieves chronic knee pain.
GAE is a simple outpatient procedure performed under mild sedation that effectively closes the artery to knee joints, reducing painful inflammation. Patients who have tried every therapy under the San Antonio sun—rubs, creams, NSAIDS, injections, ice, heat, TENS units, compression, etc.—are thrilled to quickly get back to an active, pain-free life.
To book your GAE consultation, visit MedicalVeinClinic.com or call 210-622-8000.
